Updates on public health, medical research, and healthcare services in Panama. Stories include policy changes, outbreaks, and practical health advice.
Panama is preparing to open the Animal Welfare Clinic Hospital “Más Colas” in San Miguelito, a new facility with emergency, surgery, and imaging services. The project was inspected by Minister Juan Carlos Orillac ahead of its inauguration by President José Raúl Mulino.
Azuero is nearing one year since authorities declared its water unsafe for human consumption, with residents still relying on rationing and temporary measures. The crisis highlights years of delayed action on contamination in the La Villa River.
Panama’s Ministry of Health is warning that screen time is replacing active play and increasing the risk of childhood obesity. The concern highlights the growing impact of sedentary habits on children’s health.
CSS said late attendance controls are the main obstacle delaying payments to medical interns and residents. The issue highlights how administrative timing can affect payroll in Panama’s public health system.
A new veterinary clinic in San Miguelito is nearing opening after a $246,000 build by Isobox Inc. The facility will be managed by Fundación Manchitas.
A 15-year-old student died in Coronte, Ngäbe Buglé, after being swept into the Cricamola River while crossing a creek during heavy rain. The case highlights ongoing dangers for children traveling to school and home in remote Panama communities.
Panama’s Social Security Fund has begun paying long-overdue stipends to medical interns and residents, clearing about $1.2 million in obligations dating to February 2020. The move addresses years of delayed compensation in the public health system.
Employees were evacuated from two Ministry of Health buildings after a strong gas odor was reported. Health Minister Fernando Boyd Galindo said no leak had been confirmed as firefighters investigated.
Classes remain suspended in parts of Bocas del Toro and Veraguas as heavy rain continues to threaten school routes and community access. In northern Veraguas, swollen rivers have also damaged homes and swept away livestock.
Workers at Panama’s Ministry of Health building in Panama City were evacuated after a gas-like odor was reported. Firefighters inspected the site and ruled out the presence of gas.
Public hospitals in Panama are facing payroll delays for resident and intern doctors, with the biggest bottlenecks reported at the Complex Hospital Dr. Arnulfo Arias Madrid. The doctors’ federation says the problem is in hospital administration, not in the submission of forms.
ETSU Global Brigades is traveling to Panama for a service-oriented international trip. The program gives students hands-on experience in community engagement and global health work.
Panama’s child poverty crisis drew strong attention during the Cita Eucarística, where leaders were urged to treat it as a national debt. The message linked child protection, public accountability, and the country’s long-term future.
Archbishop José Domingo Ulloa used Panama’s Great Eucharistic Gathering to denounce corruption, saying it worsens poverty and steals the future from the country’s children. He linked the issue to more than 482 children living in poverty or extreme poverty nationwide.
Archbishop José Domingo Ulloa warned that child poverty in Panama is deepening inequality, citing figures showing more than 482,000 children live in poverty. He called on government, business, civil society and faith groups to act together.
A free screening in San Miguelito brought hundreds of residents together for a film aimed at raising awareness about mental health and children’s rights. The event was backed by IFF Panamá, the local mayor’s office and UNFPA.
Panama City will host the Panama International Critical Care Congress 2026 from April 21 to 25, featuring experts from major global medical centers. The program will focus on intensive care, artificial intelligence in health, and hands-on clinical training.
Archbishop José Domingo Ulloa used the 54th Eucaristic Gathering in Panama City to urge action against child poverty, corruption and inequality. He said Panama cannot call itself developed while thousands of children live in poverty and hardship.
Panama’s intensifying heat is being felt as a climate, health and economic emergency, with experts warning that the country’s response remains too fragmented. Calls are growing for education, public participation and stronger adaptation planning.
Río Alejandro has become the main driver of dengue cases in Colón, prompting health authorities to renew prevention calls across the province. Officials are urging residents to eliminate standing water and reduce mosquito breeding sites.