Islands, Panama
Healthcare in Bocas del Toro: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Bocas del Toro
Basic clinics only; serious cases go by air ambulance or ferry to David or Panama City. Insurance with evacuation cover is strongly advised.
Hospitals for foreigners in Bocas del Toro
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Hospital Raúl Dávila Mena (Changuinola) | Public hospital on the mainland, reached by boat and road |
| Hospital Rafael Hernández (David) | Larger public hospital, about 4 hours away |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: $30–70 ($30–70) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In Panama: Panama City has excellent private hospitals at moderate prices; care outside the capital is limited, and serious cases from Bocas or San Blas need transfer to the city.
- Pharmacies: Farmacias Arrocha and Metro Plus are everywhere in cities, many open late.
- Health spending: US$1,558 per person a year (2023); 1.6 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 104 · Fire 103 · All emergencies 911.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter Panama, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Bocas del Toro for foreigners?
Hospital Raúl Dávila Mena (Changuinola): Public hospital on the mainland, reached by boat and road
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Bocas del Toro?
About $30–70 ($30–70) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for Panama?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in Panama expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Bocas del Toro
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Panama
- Panama Tourism Authority (ATP)
- Air Panama
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.