Updates on public health, medical research, and healthcare services in Panama. Stories include policy changes, outbreaks, and practical health advice.
Kathia Luciani Chiu is a Panamanian pediatric infectious disease specialist recognized for her commitment to child health and medical research. Her career highlights the importance of specialized care for children in Panama.
The blood bank in Veraguas says it has secured its supply and will accept voluntary donations until Holy Thursday before pausing on Good Friday. Health staff are also urging residents to avoid unnecessary risks during Easter Week.
Street homelessness has grown across Panama City, with community leader Shirley Williams saying about 300 more people have appeared on the streets in the past two years. The increase is linked to drug dependence and is raising concern in affected neighborhoods.
Penonomé is facing water service disruptions after damage to pumping equipment cut plant operations to 50%. Idaan says repairs could be finished Thursday, restoring full supply.
Resident doctors in Panama say CSS payroll delays and unresolved salary category changes are undermining morale and hospital operations. Fenameri has called a nationwide peaceful protest for April 9 to press for immediate action.
A 54-year-old hemodialysis patient says his silver-gray pickup was stolen from the CSS hospital parking lot in Panama City while he traveled from Chepo for treatment. The vehicle carries plate 304741.
Bocas del Toro confirmed Panama’s first bovine rabies case of 2026, prompting renewed calls for livestock vaccination. Authorities urged producers to protect all susceptible animals.
The CSS will keep hospitals and polyclinics staffed during Semana Santa 2026 under a Green Alert running from April 2 to April 6. Nearly 10,000 health workers will be on duty to maintain care across the public health network.
Heart disease is a leading cause of death among women in Panama, and its warning signs are often missed because they differ from men’s symptoms. Preventive checkups, exercise, healthy eating and stress reduction can all lower risk.
Panama’s Ministry of Health installed the Technical Council for Medicinal Cannabis, advancing the implementation of Law 242, which regulates therapeutic cannabis use in the country.
The overuse of the word “narcissist” can obscure real relationship problems and trivialize a serious clinical diagnosis. Understanding the difference between traits and disorder can bring clarity and healthier decisions.
A Hong Kong case involving an infant found in Causeway Bay has reignited calls for stronger support for people facing unplanned pregnancies. The debate centers on whether vulnerable women can access help early enough to prevent tragedy.
Archbishop José Domingo Ulloa urged Panama to adopt clear policies and change attitudes to strengthen protection for children. His message highlights child welfare as a national priority.
An older adult died in Ngäbe Buglé after an africanized bee attack, as the province faces more than 400 bee-related emergencies and at least 10 attacks in 2026. The case highlights growing safety concerns in the region.
Panama has installed a Technical Cannabis Council to help regulate medicinal cannabis and organize access to treatment. The move strengthens the country’s medical oversight framework for cannabis-based therapies.
Panama’s Health Ministry has installed the Technical Council for Medicinal Cannabis to strengthen Law 242 and improve treatment access. The move adds structure to the country’s growing medicinal cannabis policy framework.
The CSS is promoting Mi Caja Digital as a way to download the digital payslip and consult laboratory information online. The platform is part of Panama’s broader move toward faster, more accessible public services.
Panama’s Social Security Fund has activated a green alert and deployed 6,000 personnel nationwide for Holy Week, citing increased travel and medical demand. The operation is aimed at improving emergency readiness across the country.
Panama’s Health Ministry and the IOM signed an agreement to strengthen HIV, tuberculosis and malaria response at migrant transit points in Mesoamerica. The project is backed by the Global Fund and includes Panama, Costa Rica and Guatemala.
A Cureus case study looks at treating chronic low back pain in Panama with the Fascial Distortion Model, while also highlighting language barriers in care. The article offers a limited clinical example rather than broad medical proof.