Health Care in Santa Catalina

The healthcare system in Santa Catalina, is a blend of public and private services. The public healthcare system, known as the Social Security Fund (Caja de Seguro Social), is widely used by both locals and foreigners, while the private healthcare system offers a higher standard of care, albeit at a higher cost.

Panama's Healthcare System

The public healthcare system in Panama, the Social Security Fund (Caja de Seguro Social), is available to all residents, including foreigners. However, the quality of care in public hospitals can vary, and for serious medical emergencies or major surgeries, many people recommend using private hospitals. Public hospitals in Santa Catalina are typically crowded and may lack some of the advanced medical equipment found in private hospitals. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system, but many choose to use private hospitals due to the higher standard of care. Private hospitals in Santa Catalina offer a more comfortable experience, with shorter wait times and more modern facilities.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Santa Catalina

• There are limited healthcare facilities in Santa Catalina itself. For serious medical issues, expats often travel to larger cities such as Santiago or Panama City.
• The nearest hospital to Santa Catalina is the Hospital Luis 'Chicho' Fabrega in Santiago, a public hospital approximately 3 hours away by car.
• For private healthcare, the Hospital Punta Pacifica in Panama City, a Johns Hopkins-affiliated hospital, is often recommended. It is approximately 5 hours away by car.

Emergency Services in Santa Catalina

Emergency services in Santa Catalina are limited. There is no dedicated ambulance service in the town, and in case of an emergency, residents typically have to arrange for private transport to the nearest hospital. Response times can therefore be delayed, particularly in more remote areas of the town.

Health Insurance Companies in Santa Catalina

There are several popular private health insurance companies in Santa Catalina, including Seguros Mapfre and ASSA Compañía de Seguros. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans, including options for expats and digital nomads. However, many expats and digital nomads choose to use specialized expat health insurance providers, which offer coverage that is more tailored to their needs. These providers typically offer international coverage, which can be beneficial for those who travel frequently or split their time between multiple countries.