What Happened
The Ministry of Health will set up a medical care module for the Surf competition at the South American Youth Games in Playa Venao, Pedasí, in Los Santos province. The health response will be in place from April 11 through April 16 to support athletes, delegations, and spectators during the event.
The Los Santos Health Region confirmed its role in organizing the medical coverage after coordinating with security agencies and defining strategic locations for emergency response teams along the beach area.
Medical Coverage at Playa Venao
Under the direction of regional health chief Dr. Antonio Manuel González González, Minsa will install a fully equipped on-site medical module to provide immediate assistance if health incidents arise during the competition. The team will include doctors, paramedics, nurses, and nursing technicians assigned to respond to medical needs at the venue.
To strengthen emergency response, two units have also been deployed: an advanced life support ambulance for critical cases and a 4×4 basic life support unit designed for access to beach terrain. These resources are intended to support prehospital care and improve response times in the coastal setting.
Why It Matters
Playa Venao is a high-traffic beach destination, and surfing competitions bring athletes and visitors into an environment where quick medical access can be essential. A structured emergency plan helps reduce risks in a setting that combines sports activity, heat, sea conditions, and difficult terrain for ground vehicles.
The health operation also reflects the broader role of provincial authorities in supporting international sporting events in Panama. By positioning medical staff and transport units near the competition area, the Ministry of Health aims to reinforce safety standards and provide faster intervention if needed.
Local Coordination
The Los Santos Health Region said the operation is part of its commitment to delivering quality care and maintaining a safe environment for the event. The health deployment will work alongside security personnel as part of the overall organization for the surf competition in Pedasí.
The South American Youth Games continue to draw attention to Panama’s ability to host regional youth sports events, with local institutions contributing logistics, safety, and health services to support the competition.