Panama is working to consolidate itself as a leading medical tourism destination in the region, taking advantage of its quality and modern healthcare infrastructure and trained professionals. The Central American country aspires to attract international patients seeking high - quality medical services at competitive prices compared to other destinations, complementing the tourist offer health services.
Medical tourism, also known as health tourism, is defined as the international movement of people who travel for medical services, which may include consultations, interventions, hospitalization or clinical care, and the provision of medicine and Panama is actively developing this segment.
With the intention to develop strategic plans and boost medical tourism in the country, the Minister of Commerce and Industries Julio Moltó, held a relevant meeting with representatives of the Panama Clinic and the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF) to evaluate proposals to promote medical tourism in Panama, a sector that moves $180 billion globally and attracts 44 million international patients annually.
At the meeting participated representing the Panama Clinic Dr. Mario Vega,.María Mavrokordatos and Theodoro Constantinos.
During the meeting the leaders of the Panama Clinic, which stands as a premier hospital in Latin America and one of the best in the world according to Statista Newsweek's prestigious Global Hospital Rating, shared successful experiences from neighboring countries such as Colombia and Costa Rica.
As competitors in medical tourism in the region was mentioned Colombia, positioned in the top 10 in the world in health tourism, thanks to a combination of advanced infrastructure, competitive prices and effective international promotion and also Costa Rica which receives around 70,000 international visitors a year, generating significant income through international accreditations and offers that integrate medical and tourism services.
The Panama Clinic which was conceived as an hospital with the latest technology, unwavering in its commitment to delivering top - tier care through unparalleled service excellence boasts a welcoming, aesthetically pleasing, and modern environment, instilling a sense of confidence and security. Its array of services is extensive, encompassing radiology, laboratory services, and a fully equipped blood bank, among various others, a centre highly prepared for medical tourism.
Apart Panama Clinic other high level medical divisions were highlighted such as Stem Cell Institute, recognized in the region for its stem cell therapies to treat spinal cord injuries, aurtism and degenerative diseases, and Panama Fertility, with a track record of more than three decades in assisted reproduction.
The experts highlighted that Panama, due to its strategic location, use of the dollar and excellent air connectivity, has an outstanding potential to capture a greater share in the global health tourism market.
According to the projections presented, the country could generate additional revenues ranging from $60 to $150 million per year, along with the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
CAF's representative in Panama, Lucía Meza, expressed the entity's commitment to support the initiative through financing and technical advice to structure the program and define the necessary incentives.
Minister Julio Moltó said that the meeting is a first step to explore the way to join efforts between different institutions and sectors. The entities are open to collaborate and seek together the best solutions so that health tourism in Panama grows and benefits more people.
The Panamanian government, through the Panamanian Tourism Authority (ATP) is working to activate the medical tourism system as a strategy to diversify its economy and attract foreign investment. The Tourism Authority seeks to position Panama as a connectivity hub, taking advantage of its strategic location and infrastructure, including the iconic Panama Canal, to facilitate access for international patients.
In conclusion, Panama is actively working to convert itself into a reference medical tourism destination in the region, preparing strategic plans, providing its infrastructure and human capital to attract international patients and generate economic and social benefits.
Link
https://mici.gob.pa/2025/08/12/reunion-estrategica-para-impulsar-el-turismo-medico-en-panama/
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