1. You Don't Need a Medical Tourism Agency
Many patients assume they need to pay a facilitator to arrange their care. In Panama, the major hospitals have in-house International Patient Services departments that do everything a third-party agency would do — for free.
2. Panama Uses the US Dollar
Panama's official currency is the Balboa, but the US dollar is used interchangeably everywhere. No currency exchange needed for US patients.
3. English is Widely Spoken
All major hospitals have English-speaking staff, and Panama City's hotel and restaurant scene is accustomed to English-speaking visitors. You will not struggle to communicate.
4. Direct Flights from Most US Cities
Copa Airlines, United, American, and Delta all operate direct flights to Tocumen International Airport from major US hubs. Flight time from Miami is just 2.5 hours; from New York, 5 hours.
5. Combine Recovery with Tourism
Panama City is a vibrant, modern city with world-class restaurants, a historic old town (Casco Viejo), and easy access to beaches and rainforest. Many patients extend their stay to turn recovery into a holiday.