Panama

The Need

Healthcare in Panama is provided through a system that includes both the government and a private sector. Panama’s public healthcare system is run by the Ministry of Health (MINSA) and the Social Security Fund (Caja de Seguro Social, or CSS). Public hospitals are available to everyone, but are primarily for the lowest economic classes. Public clinics, called polyclinicas, are also available. Public healthcare is funded through taxes and social security. There is an unequal distribution of healthcare services and resources, especially in rural communities. The public health care system faces a lack of funding, which creates bed and resource shortages. Public healthcare facilities often have long waiting times, especially in more remote areas.

People who live in rural areas are often unable to access health facilities. As a result, many native Panamanians struggle to live a high-quality and healthy life. Please join International Medical Relief on our medical mission to Panama. This year, we will return to assist the indigenous communities and people living in small villages throughout the country. By continuing our impactful efforts throughout the region to assist the communities, you and the rest of your IMR team will strengthen IMR’s long-term commitment and impact in Panama.

Our Work

International Medical Relief began partnering with Panama in 2013.  International Medical Relief welcomes volunteers from all specialties and fields, including family medicine, dentistry, dermatology, pediatrics, internal medicine, podiatry, geriatrics, ophthalmology, obstetrics and gynecology, and more. Non-medical volunteers are also encouraged to join, as there are vital roles for everyone. Family members are welcome to participate, and all groups, including students, are invited to be part of this rewarding experience. Founded on the belief that everyone deserves a platform for service, IMR invites you to take your seat at the table!

IMR plans to continue our preventative efforts by providing medical relief and to continue the efforts to provide sustainable health services to the community. IMR will continue to provide community health training, medical treatments, medical supplies and equipment, and clinic operations. IMR strives to provide life-changing medical care to people who do not have reliable access to treatment and help increase the community’s education and knowledge on their own health to improve the overall health of the most vulnerable and underserved communities in Panama.

With diligent planning and preparation, IMR is dedicated to ensuring that specific goals are met on our missions, each in correlation to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3, 6, and 17.

IMR works to elevate vulnerable populations through shoulder-to-shoulder care with our local partners, creating workforce density, and a cadre of future healthcare and public health leaders in association to UNSDG 3: Good Health & Wellbeing.

Our medical mission teams also work toward UNSDG 6: Clean Water & Sanitation by supporting and strengthening the participation of local communities in improving their water quality, and installing water filtration systems that supply communities with clean drinking water and providing education on hydration and hygiene.

In correlation with UNSDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, our organization works in collaboration and at the request of local hosts where we are under their direct influence and affluence. IMR never goes into a country without a formal invitation where there is a great community need for medical or dental care, and health education.

This Mission

Each clinic day will take place in a different village, where community members will be eager to welcome you and receive much-needed treatment and health education. According to the World Health Organization, diseases like diarrhea, cholera, and pneumonia are prevalent in Panama, and poverty, along with a lack of clean drinking water, makes daily life especially challenging. During the clinic, you will assist entire families across multiple generations, providing care for conditions such as rashes, burns, open wounds, tinea, impetigo, cutaneous leishmaniasis, and staph infections.

In addition to providing treatment, you and your team will educate locals on maintaining their health and caring for their families. The clinic’s services will cover a wide range of healthcare needs, including medical, dental, ophthalmic, dermatology, geriatrics, obstetrics, gynecology, public health, internal medicine, and more. Women’s healthcare will also be a major focus, where we will offer general care for women and infants, as well as promote prenatal care awareness.

The team will have another highly rewarding day with the chance to visit the world-famous Panama Canal. You’ll also have the option to participate in various excursions, including sport fishing, an aerial tram tour of the rainforest, a visit to the Embera Indigenous Village, the Gatun Lake Expedition, a riverboat tour, or a night safari, with possible sightings of monkeys, caiman, capybara, and two-toed sloths. You can also enjoy kayaking on the Panama Canal or simply relax at the resort.

Lodging/Transportation

IMR 2-3 star accommodations offer a personalized experience with stylish decor and a unique ambiance, such as small boutique hotels. These typically provide more charm than larger chain hotels. Rooms and bathrooms are shared and often combined with an aesthetic appeal that reflects Panama’s local culture. While 2-3 star accommodations in Panama are basic, they offer a clean, comfortable, and budget-friendly option for travelers.

IMR will arrange all the transportation to and from clinic sites and your overnight accommodations.

Highlights

The highlight of this mission is the opportunity to serve patients who, without you and your team, would not have access to healthcare or health education. Most of your patients will come from Indigenous families and working communities, and they will be eager to receive your care and kindness. While the most rewarding part of this trip will be providing care to the people of Panama, you’ll also treasure the many other memories you create throughout the week. As a token of appreciation for your dedication to humanitarian aid, IMR has arranged a guided tour of the Panama Canal and the Miraflores Lock Visitors Center for your team. You’ll also have the chance to explore some of Panama’s most pristine landscapes, including breathtaking waterfalls across the countryside.

Extend Your Stay

Since you’re already traveling across the globe, why not consider extending your stay for a few days to explore a nearby destination? Many of our past volunteers have opted to extend their time in Panama to experience more of what this incredible country has to offer!

With extra time, you could enjoy world-class fishing, kayak through the Panama Canal, take a tram tour of the rainforest, or embark on the Gatun Lake Expedition—giving you a truly unforgettable experience. Other top activities include hiking to Panama’s only volcano, spotting the famous Quetzal at Parque Nacional Volcán Barú, and searching for the Geoffroy’s tamarin monkey.

To explore available options, visit the website of our partner, Worldwide Navigators, or contact them directly at (970) 541-8827 or travel@worldwidenavigators.com.

Itinerary at a Glance