Hookworm | Cutaneous Larva Migrans
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Capital: Panama City
Population: 4.17 million
Official language: Spanish
Time zone: Eastern Standard Time
Emergency #: 103
Vaccinations required: Yes
Risk of malaria: Yes
Panama is known for its beaches, rainforests, and mountains. Popular activities include surfing, snorkeling, sailing, and diving on the San Blas Islands and hiking through Simon Bolivar Park. Travellers can visit coffee plantations in Boquete, experience fast-paced Panama City and cruise the Panama Canal.
The standards for patient care and medical services in Panama may differ from your home country. Panama has public and private healthcare options. The quality of private medical care in Panama City is good and meets international standards. There are four major private hospitals and many private medical clinics. Outside of the capital, the quality of care can be inadequate and facilities suffer from shortages of equipment and trained medical staff.
In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals and private practitioners in Panama typically require upfront payment, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate travel health insurance. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in Panama.
Pharmacies are widely available in Panama and many medications are accessible. Some medications which may require a prescription in your home country may be available without one in Panama. Always consult with a doctor before taking a new medication and ensure you pack an adequate supply of medication for the duration of your trip.
If you are travelling with medication, check with Panama’s embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Health for details on medication allowances and restrictions. If your medication is a psychotropic or narcotic, you can review Panama’s regulations on the International Narcotics Control Board. Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.
Many roads are in good condition but roads signs and markings are not common and traffic lights may not be present, even at busy intersections. Seat belts must be worn by drivers and passengers of vehicles at all times. Motorcycle drivers and passengers of motorcycles must wear a helmet at all times.