JCI-accredited hospitals, Johns Hopkins affiliated care, and 40-70% savings compared to Canada.
Panama has emerged as a premier medical tourism destination, combining North American standards with Latin American affordability.
International Gold Standard
Affiliated Hospital
English Speaking
vs Canada/US
Most elite private facilities are concentrated in Panama City's medical districts—Punta Pacífica and Costa del Este—offering everything from routine checkups to complex surgeries. Think of Panama's private hospitals as high-tech hubs specifically designed to bridge the gap between North American standards and Latin American affordability.
Everything you need to know about accessing Panama's healthcare system
"Navigating Panama's medical system as a Canadian is like moving from a slow-moving public transit line to a private express shuttle—while you must now pay a fare, the speed of service and modern quality often result in a more efficient and comfortable journey for your health."
To Tocumen International (PTY)
Flight duration
Round-trip flights
Airport to Punta Pacífica
A Canadian expat from British Columbia noted that they pay less for total healthcare in Panama (including insurance) while receiving significantly faster service than in Canada.
Important: Panama's 9-1-1 operates primarily in Spanish.
Solution: Many expat communities (like Boquete) offer private, bilingual "911-type" services for approximately $90/year.
These services provide 24-hour English support and use specific house-marking systems to help responders find locations without traditional street names.
Because navigating a foreign healthcare system can be complex, our Explorer-Relocator Package includes:
Ready to explore Panama's healthcare system in person?
Book Your 10-Day TourFrom JCI-accredited private hospitals to the new state-of-the-art public health complex.
Pacífica Salud – The only Central American hospital affiliated with Johns Hopkins Medicine International and accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI).
Punta Pacífica, Panama City
Private Hospital
Pacífica Salud – Modern facility expanding access to advanced care under Johns Hopkins standards. State-of-the-art equipment and specialists.
Costa del Este, Panama City
Private Hospital
A well-established private facility offering a wide range of specialties including cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics.
Ave Cuba & Calle 38-39, Panama City
Private Hospital
Long-established private hospital with comprehensive medical services and experienced specialists across multiple disciplines.
Ave. Balboa & Calle 53, Marbella
Private Hospital
Comprehensive private medical services with modern facilities and a strong reputation among expats and locals alike.
Las Sabanas, Panama City
Private Hospital
Hospital City – Massive, modern public health complex offering advanced care. A major upgrade to Panama's public healthcare infrastructure.
Panama City
Public Hospital
Leading private hospital in the highlands region, serving the expat communities of Boquete and David with quality medical care.
David, Chiriquí
Private Hospital
Private facility specializing in various medical and diagnostic services, serving the Chiriquí highlands region.
David, Chiriquí
Private Hospital
Panama is a leading destination for dental and optical tourism, with significant savings on major procedures.
Located within Hospital Punta Pacífica. Specializes in full-mouth restoration, implants, and complex dental procedures.
Hospital Punta Pacífica
In operation since the 1930s. Specializing in complex periodontics and implantology with decades of experience.
Panama City
Led by Dr. Hector Gonzalez Lay (Florida Licensed). Utilizes Digital Smile Design protocols for cosmetic dentistry.
Panama City
Known for periodontics, implants, and CAD/CAM same-day crowns. Modern technology and experienced specialists.
Panama City
Run by US-trained professionals. English-speaking staff and modern facilities in a convenient location.
Plaza Ventura, El Dorado
Recommended for English-speaking services. Full range of dental procedures from general to cosmetic.
El Dorado, Panama City
LASIK surgery, cataract surgery, glaucoma treatment, and corneal transplants. Specialists include Dr. Edith de Lopez (Cornea/Refractive) and Dr. Karla Ng Gonzalez.
Punta Pacífica
Chain of opticians with multiple branches throughout Panama City. Affordable eyewear and vision services.
Multiple Locations
Panama's medical facilities offer a comprehensive range of procedures and specialties.
See why thousands of Canadians travel to Panama for medical and dental procedures.
| Procedure | Canada (CAD) | Panama (USD) | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Implant (single) | $3,000 - $6,000 | $900 - $1,500 | 60-75% |
| All-on-4 Dental Implants | $25,000 - $35,000 | $8,000 - $12,000 | 65-70% |
| Dental Crown | $1,000 - $1,500 | $300 - $500 | 60-70% |
| LASIK Surgery (both eyes) | $4,000 - $6,000 | $1,500 - $2,500 | 55-65% |
| Cataract Surgery (per eye) | $3,500 - $5,000 | $1,200 - $2,000 | 60-65% |
| Hip Replacement | $20,000 - $30,000 | $12,000 - $15,000 | 40-50% |
| Knee Replacement | $18,000 - $25,000 | $10,000 - $14,000 | 45-55% |
| Facelift | $15,000 - $25,000 | $5,000 - $8,000 | 65-70% |
* Prices are estimates and may vary based on complexity, facility, and specific requirements. Always request a detailed quote before proceeding.
Internationally trained specialists providing world-class care.
| Name | Specialization | Affiliation / Training |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Darío Garzón | Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon | University of El Bosque |
| Dr. Monica Shedden | Dental Restoration / Implants | Pacific Dental Clinic |
| Dr. Pasquale Calvosa | Dental Restoration / Implants | Pacific Dental Clinic |
| Dr. Fernando Boyd | Periodontics / Implantology | University of Pennsylvania |
| Dr. Richard Ford | Periodontics / Implants | Clínica Ford Dental Spa |
| Dr. Hector Gonzalez Lay | Cosmetic Dentistry | Smile Design Panama (Florida Licensed) |
| Dr. Edith de Lopez | Cornea / Refractive Surgery | Hospital Punta Pacífica |
| Dr. Karla Ng Gonzalez | Ophthalmology | Hospital Punta Pacífica |
| Dr. Luis Batres | General Dentistry | Panama City |
Dentist licenses can be verified through the Consejo Técnico de Salud via the MINSA web portal or mobile app.
Emergency Number: 9-1-1 (operators primarily speak Spanish)
Private Emergency Services: English-speaking private emergency services are available in expat communities like Boquete for an annual fee.
Tip: Save the number of your nearest private hospital for English-speaking assistance in emergencies.
Several services coordinate travel, accommodation, and clinical connections for international patients seeking medical care in Panama:
Our Explorer-Relocator Package includes visits to medical facilities and consultations with healthcare advisors so you can make informed decisions about your care.