Panama Health Insider!

September 2, 2025 Edition

Welcome to this week’s edition of Panama Health Insider.

Our focus is shifting even more toward health and wellness in Panama — helping you stay informed, healthy, and connected as an expat. This week, we’re examining how global institutions are supporting Panama's efforts to enhance its healthcare, and how retirees are discovering both excellent care and a high quality of life here. We’ll also share fresh insights into why more Americans are considering retirement abroad, with Panama topping the list.

Weekly Summary — Relevant News for Expats This Week

• 1. World Bank Helps Strengthen Panama’s Health System After COVID-19
• Through a Japan-funded UHC program, the World Bank supported Panama’s Ministry of Health in upgrading telemedicine, primary care coordination, supply chain systems (like e-prescriptions), and rural health outreach. Panama is now part of a broader Alliance for Primary Care in the Americas.
• What This Means for You: Expect more reliable public health services and better connectivity with providers—even remotely and outside major cities.

Source: World Bank​

• 2. Retirees loving Panama’s healthcare and lifestyle — A story of a 71-year-old retiree who moved with her 97-year-old mother and found top-notch accessible care and a more relaxed life.

Source: Panama Life Hub​

• 3. Americans eyeing cheaper retirement overseas — A trend report showing that over 34% of Americans are considering retirement abroad, citing affordable healthcare and living costs as major incentives.

Source: Investopedia​

• What This Means for You:
  • Panama is not only affordable, but also accessible for aging parents. Unlike many destinations that make healthcare or visas difficult for seniors, Panama shows that multigenerational relocation is possible.
  • Healthcare is a deciding factor. Americans considering retirement abroad often prioritize access to private hospitals, English-speaking doctors, and the ability to manage long-term care costs. Stories like this demonstrate that Panama can provide stability in those areas.
  • Retirement with family support. For expats, this underscores that retiring abroad doesn’t have to mean leaving loved ones behind—Panama can accommodate complex family situations.

💊 Health Deals of the Week

• Supermercado 99 → As part of the Benefits Program, get 25% off on medications every day. (Restrictions apply).
• Bupa Salud → Exclusive health insurance discounts valid until September 30, 2025:
  • Global Premier Health Plan → 15% lifetime discount
  • Global Select Health Plan → 15% lifetime discount
  • Corporate Care → 10% lifetime discount

Source: Bupasalud.com.pa/​

Spotlight Analysis – Deep Dive

Finding Peace & Quality Care: Retiring with an Elderly Family in Panama

This month's Spotlight dives into a powerful story from Business Insider: Debbie Boyd, 71, moved to Panama with her 97-year-old mother and discovered a lifestyle defined by affordable, accessible healthcare—and a sense of calm she couldn't find in the U.S.

Key Insights:

• Affordable Healthcare Makes Complex Family Moves Feasible​
  Debbie’s move illustrates how Panama’s cost-effective medical services—including home care—enable expats to relocate with elderly relatives without financial strain.
• Holistic Well-Being vs. Pure Logistics​
  It’s not just about affordability. The combination of local caregiver networks, comprehensive healthcare access, and a welcoming social environment contributes to improved mental and emotional well-being for both caregiver and parent.
• Blueprint for Family-Focused Retirement Abroad​
  Debbie’s experience goes beyond her personal tale—it serves as a model for expats looking to age in place with multi-generational support. The smooth transition was rooted in careful research, scouting trips, and hands-on planning.
• Actionable Takeaway:​
  If you're considering moving with family who need care, start by:
  • Mapping available local services (clinics, pharmacies, home care agencies).
  • Planning with scouting trips and temporary housing options.
  • Prioritizing community integration (expat groups, caregiver networks) as much as healthcare access.

Conclusion​
Debbie’s story isn’t just inspiring—it’s instructive. It shows that with the right preparation, Panama can offer a retirement that balances family, healthcare, and emotional peace.

Source: businessinsider.com and PanamaLifeHub.com​

Thanks for reading this week’s Panama Health Insider. Be sure to check out our new healthcare hub for fuller guides and longer reads. See you next Tuesday on newsletter.panamalifehub.com​