Panama Travel Bonus -- Free Health Insurance

Let’s face it, many tourists, especially those who are less experienced, may have concerns about the what happens if they have an accident while traveling.  Even knowing that most of Panama has world-class health care you’re still far from home, your insurance is useless and you’re in a country whose primary language is different from your own.  What do you do?

One of the first things you get upon arriving in Panama is a special card providing free health insurance for 30 days.  This is an absolutely brilliant decision by the nation of Panama.  The choice of countries to visit obviously isn’t limited to Panama.  With health care scratched off your list of possible drawbacks, Panama immediately becomes a more attractive option for any tourist exploring their options for an exotic vacation.

Here are some details:

•  You must enter the country through Tocumen International Airport
•  Carrying the card is not necessary; the entrance stamp on your passport is enough
•  The bill is paid by the Panama Tourism Authority
•  If you have questions or need help, there is a hotline number to call
• The insurance covers all accidents that happen or diseases contracted within Panama
• Coverage of most medical and incidental expenses
• If you kick the bucket while in Panama, they send your remains home

I have never needed a foreign medical facility or even been sick while traveling, but I know if I return to Panama I will rest easier just knowing that if I do get sick, I’m covered.

There are two web sites listed on the Turista Urgencia Medica card:  http://www.atp.gob.pa/ and http://www.generali.com.pa/.  Unfortunately, they are both in Spanish, but if you speak Spanish you may be able to share some info with the rest of us.