Updates on public health, medical research, and healthcare services in Panama. Stories include policy changes, outbreaks, and practical health advice.
A US tourist drowned at Playa Las Lajas in a private area described as outside surveillance coverage, according to Telemetro. Authorities and further details were not reported.
The Alcaldía de Panamá held a March event at Estadio Santa Rita de Santa Ana providing medical care, hygiene, clothing, food and grooming to women living on the streets, combining services with encouragement to pursue stable housing and reintegration.
Priority Ambulance announced it has launched medical transportation services and is headquartered in Panama City, the company said in a news release. Further operational details were not disclosed.
India’s semaglutide patent expiry has set off a price war among manufacturers, likely increasing availability of weekly weight‑loss injections and potentially affecting access beyond India.
Surgeons from the U.S. Southern Command supported medical procedures at Hospital San Miguel Arcángel in San Miguelito as part of the mission Juntos por la Salud.
CSS and Minsa have launched a joint call to hire 77 medical specialists to strengthen health services in Panama’s interior, open to both Panamanian and foreign physicians.
Patients report delays and appointment difficulties at Policlínica J.J. Vallarino as authorities acknowledge demand has surpassed the clinic’s capacity, highlighting strain on local services.
Hospital San Miguel Arcángel presented a preliminary project for a three‑level maternal and infant annex to expand its infrastructure. Further technical, funding and timeline details have not yet been released.
Panama’s Ministry of Health reports that at least 21 girls and adolescents aged 10–19 become pregnant each day, highlighting gaps in sexual education, services and social support.
MIDA detained 1,624.62 kg of uncertified plant and animal products in February—535 kg of animal-origin items including sausages and cheese—warning travelers and importers about required health certification.
An American tourist in her 60s drowned at Las Lajas Beach in Chiriquí Province on March 18, 2026. Emergency crews attempted resuscitation but the victim did not survive.
Panama’s Social Security Fund filed a criminal complaint after alleged theft and loss of medicines in Chiriquí; prosecutors have launched an investigation to find those responsible.
Residents of Naos in La Chorrera have been without potable water for over 15 days and are requesting emergency supply as the outage continues.
The Social Security Fund (CSS) has filed a criminal complaint over alleged medicine thefts in Chiriquí and is investigating while implementing the SALMI tracking system in 32 units to prevent future losses.
A 61-year-old American tourist, Tiffany Rau, drowned at Las Lajas Beach in Chiriquí despite resuscitation efforts; authorities are investigating amid recent strong-wave warnings.
Sopa, a popular Panamanian soup, can be made with meat or chicken and a variety of ingredients that increase its nutritional value, highlighting its versatility in local diets.
Panama has increased surveillance at airports and ports after measles cases were reported in Costa Rica and Colombia. Authorities say vaccines are available and screenings have been strengthened.
Experts warn that elevated temperatures in Panama can cause dehydration and heatstroke in pets. They advise avoiding walks during peak sun and keeping animals in cool indoor spaces.
Telemetro reported that a 55-year-old man died in a crash and rollover in Los Santos, becoming the province’s third traffic fatality, according to a March 17, 2026 bulletin.
Patients across Panama report visiting multiple pharmacies to find prescribed medicines and often leaving without them, highlighting concerns about access and potential health impacts.