Health Care in Bocas del Toro

The healthcare system in Bocas del Toro, consists of both public and private facilities. While the public healthcare system is accessible to foreigners, many expats and digital nomads prefer to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries.

Panama's Healthcare System

Panama's public healthcare system, known as Caja de Seguro Social (CSS), is available to both locals and foreigners. However, public hospitals in Bocas del Toro are not typically recommended for serious medical emergencies or major surgeries due to limited resources and long waiting times. Public hospitals in the region tend to be crowded and understaffed, which can lead to a lower quality of care. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Panama, but many prefer to use private hospitals for better quality care and shorter waiting times. Private hospitals in Bocas del Toro are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, as they offer a higher standard of care and more advanced facilities.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Bocas del Toro

There are limited healthcare facilities in Bocas del Toro, with most expats and digital nomads seeking medical care in nearby cities. Some recommended hospitals and clinics in the region include:

• Centro Medico Dr. Thomas S. Harricks (private clinic) - located in Bocas Town
• Hospital Regional de Changuinola (public hospital) - located in Changuinola, approximately 3 hours by car from Bocas del Toro
• Hospital Punta Pacifica (private hospital) - located in Panama City, approximately 11 hours by car from Bocas del Toro

In case of emergencies or specialized medical care, expats often travel to Panama City or even neighboring countries like Costa Rica for treatment.

Emergency Services in Bocas del Toro

There are ambulance services available in Bocas del Toro, but they may not be as reliable or prompt as those in more developed areas. To call for an ambulance, dial 911. However, due to the remote location and limited resources, there can sometimes be delays in response times.

Health Insurance Companies in Bocas del Toro

Some popular private health insurance companies in Bocas del Toro include ASSA Compañía de Seguros, Mapfre Panamá, and Seguros Suramericana. Expats and digital nomads typically use these local companies or opt for specialized expat health insurance providers. It is important to research and compare different insurance options to find the best coverage for your needs while living in Bocas del Toro.