Updates on public health, medical research, and healthcare services in Panama. Stories include policy changes, outbreaks, and practical health advice.
Nutritionist Elvia Castillo explained how InBody body composition analysis helps people set more precise weight and health goals. The test looks beyond the scale to measure muscle, fat, and other body components.
Panama remains central to efforts to stop the New World screwworm from spreading north, with a sterile fly facility helping maintain the barrier in the Darien Gap. The program is designed to protect livestock, communities, and regional animal health.
An alleged assault involving four minors at a school in Alcalde Díaz has renewed concern about bullying in Panama’s schools. The case has sparked fresh debate over student safety and prevention measures.
Hospital Santo Tomás is remodeling its waiting area as an uptick in gunshot wound cases increases pressure on the public hospital. The change comes amid the wider strain violent injuries place on Panama’s health system.
Hospital Santo Tomás has reinforced its emergency services after a recent rise in patients with gunshot wounds, adding pressure to its medical resources. The situation underscores the strain violent incidents can place on Panama City’s public health system.
Patients in Changuinola, Bocas del Toro, are calling for a long-awaited cataract surgery campaign after waiting months and even years to be included. The delay has renewed attention on access to specialized health care in Panama’s provinces.
Panama’s National Assembly approved a bill to protect the right to education for hospitalized children. The measure seeks to keep students connected to learning during medical treatment.
Panama will carry out a deep diagnostic of the water system in Azuero with support from the United States while sanitary measures remain in place. The effort aims to clarify the causes of the region’s water crisis and guide the next response steps.
Hospital Santo Tomás opened a new emergency waiting area in Panama City to improve conditions for patients and healthcare workers. The upgrade is part of broader efforts to strengthen the experience in one of Panama’s key public hospitals.
Hospital Santo Tomás reopened its renovated emergency room in Panama City as part of a wider effort to improve deteriorated health facilities. The upgrade highlights ongoing work to modernize public hospitals in Panama.
Hospital Santo Tomás has renewed its emergency room as patient visits continue to climb, with more than 54,000 cases registered in 2025. The upgrade comes as the public hospital faces sustained pressure from rising demand.
Two cruise voyages linked to Panama departures saw multiple passengers fall ill in separate outbreaks. The incidents highlight ongoing health concerns on ships sailing from Panama City.
Violence-related medical cases have risen at Santo Tomás Hospital in Panama City, highlighting pressure on emergency services and concerns about street violence. The trend underscores the link between public safety and the workload of Panama’s main public hospitals.
Panama has asked the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to help diagnose the water crisis in Azuero, where contamination of the La Villa and Estibaná rivers has left tap water unsafe to drink. Authorities say well drilling, plant repairs and other contingency measures are ongoing while they prepare a longer-term plan.
Panama’s Health Ministry will meet with U.S. engineers on Friday as authorities respond to the water crisis in Azuero. The coordination reflects growing concern over water service and public health in the region.
Panama’s health authorities reported more than 1,700 dengue cases and urged residents to strengthen prevention efforts by eliminating mosquito breeding sites. Officials stressed that community cleanup remains key to limiting the spread of the disease.
More than 300 patients in Bocas del Toro are urging the CSS to launch cataract surgery campaigns after waiting years for treatment. The case highlights long delays in access to specialized care outside Panama’s main urban areas.
Residents of Villa Mireya in Capira are alarmed after Africanized bees caused incidents involving a six-month-old baby and several dogs. The community is now worried about the safety of families and pets.
A pregnant woman in Ngäbe-Buglé was evacuated by Senan after labor complications and taken to Rambala before being transferred by ambulance. The operation underscores the importance of emergency transport in remote parts of Panama.
The National Assembly approved, by insistence, a bill to extend health center hours across Panama after the Executive Branch objected over financing and technical issues. The measure is intended to improve access to primary care beyond standard hours.