Town in Veraguas, Panama
Healthcare in Santa Catalina: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Santa Catalina
Only basic first aid locally; serious cases require a long transfer to Santiago or Panama City. Carry insurance with evacuation.
Hospitals for foreigners in Santa Catalina
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Hospital Luis "Chicho" Fábrega (Santiago) | Public hospital in Santiago, about 2 hours away |
| Hospital Punta Pacífica (Panama City) | Private; about 5 hours by road |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: $30–60 ($30–60) 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 Santa Catalina for foreigners?
Hospital Luis "Chicho" Fábrega (Santiago): Public hospital in Santiago, about 2 hours away
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Santa Catalina?
About $30–60 ($30–60) 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 Santa Catalina
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: Panama
- Panama Tourism Authority (ATP)
- Coiba National Park (MiAmbiente)
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 Spotted something out of date?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.