Panama’s healthcare system in 30 seconds
Panama runs a dual system: public (free for residents, overloaded) and private (excellent, paid). As an expat, you’ll use private almost exclusively.
Panamanian private hospitals are remarkably high-quality: Punta Pacifica is Johns Hopkins-affiliated, Paitilla has reference cardiology, Hospital Nacional covers everyday care. Prices:
- GP consult: 50–80 USD
- Specialist: 80–150 USD
- Day hospitalization: 800–1,500 USD
- MRI: 800–1,200 USD
- ER admission: 200–500 USD
Without insurance, a simple appendicitis can run 6,000–12,000 USD.
SafetyWing — the monthly default to start
SafetyWing is the go-to for starting your move: monthly, no commitment, 5-minute online sign-up, ~45 USD/month for a 35-year-old.
Covers:
- Hospitalization up to 250,000 USD;
- Private consults (with 250 USD deductible);
- Medical evacuation;
- Covid-19 treatment;
- Lost luggage up to 500 USD.
Doesn’t cover:
- Pre-existing conditions (declared or not);
- Non-urgent dental;
- Maternity (paid add-on).
Field note — In 2019 I filed a SafetyWing claim for 1,200 USD post-accident care. Reimbursement in 8 days, no drama. Effective as long as you stay within caps.
Cigna Global — proper expat insurance
When the move becomes permanent, Cigna Global takes over. Silver plan starts ~220 USD/month for a 35-year-old:
- 1,000,000 USD annual cap;
- Hospitalization included;
- Premium hospital network (Punta Pacifica, Paitilla) on direct billing;
- Dental included on some plans;
- Optional maternity.
Cigna is explicitly accepted by Panamanian migration officers for visas requiring proof of coverage (Friendly Nations Visa, Pensionado).
Drawback: annual commitment + detailed medical questionnaire on signup. If you have a pre-existing condition, negotiate carefully before signing.
World Nomads — for adventure profiles
World Nomads is the outlier: sport / adventure covered (diving, high-altitude trek, surf in Bocas), better luggage coverage. Pricier (~78 USD/month) but useful if you combine expat life with active travel.
Note: World Nomads is less suited to a sedentary expat — its health caps are tighter than Cigna.
The rule that works
- Months 1–6: SafetyWing (monthly, 45 USD).
- Month 6+ with confirmed move: Cigna Global (annual, ~220 USD).
- Adventure profile: World Nomads as a complement, or switch to SafetyWing Nomad which adds adventure.
Related: Open a bank account in Panama, The Friendly Nations Visa, Bring your dog to Panama.