News for Foreign doctors in Panama

In an effort to find a solution to the shortage of healthcare professionals in the country, Panama will allow foreign medical professionals with 5 years in the country to practice in the public sector.

 Regulations for foreign doctors, According to a statement issued by National Migration Service (SNM), will include being naturalized and having the required documents that accredit them as health professionals, they will also have to be certified by the Technical Health Council of Panama.

Physicians chosen to practice must pass a certification exam in general medicine and a specialty exam. Foreign doctors must also submit a third examination to the Directorate General of Health, according to Dr. Marcos Young, of the Education Commission of the Ministry of Health (Minsa). This process can take up to 12 months.