How to get help in an emergency in Panama

National System of civil Protection and emergencies (S.I.N.A.P.R.O.C.) They are responsible of planning supervision and investigation policies and actions to prevent risks and National disasters.

- Police Department
- Firemen Department
- Red Cross
- Ministerio de Salud of Panama

The initial minutes after an injury or medical crisis frequently are the most important. The key is knowing what to do, remaining calm, and making a decision to act.

Take into consideration the following to be prepared for Emergencies:

• Always keep a radio, batteries, flashlights, and a medicine kit available.
• Always have on hand the most important documentation (ID, Passports etc)
• Keep a list of emergency phone numbers by the phone. Include numbers for: police (104), firemen department (103), poison control, local hospital, ambulance service, National System of civil Protection and emergencies (S.I.N.A.P.R.O.C.) (316-3200) Panama dos not have a 911 line.
• Keep and maintain a well-stocked first-aid kit at home, at work and in your vehicle. This will help you handle medical situations.
• Keep a list of all your medications in your wallet, including drug names, strength, dosage form and regimen. Also list all allergies, especially to medications.
• Also keep a list of emergency contacts such as family members.
• Wear your medical-alert bracelet or necklace.
• Take a first-aid class. This will not only help you stay calm and focused, but will also help you to help yourself and those around you in the event of an emergency.
• Action can mean anything from calling paramedics, applying direct pressure to a wound, performing CPR, or splinting an injury. Never perform a medical procedure if you are unsure of how to do it. Continue to assist the victim until help arrives
• Protect the victim from disturbances, reassure the victim and Do Not move him or her unless absolutely necessary,
• Try to determine the extent of the injury or probable cause of illness
• Emergency rooms provide services to any and all patients, regardless of their ability to pay, insurance coverage.
• Never operate a vehicle if under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Read warning labels on all medications to see if they impair your ability to drive or operate machinery.
For an ambulance in Panama, call one of the following:

• Alerta Ambulance at 269-9778
• Hospital Nacional at 800-8432
• Red Cross at 228-0692 or 228-2187

There is no ambulance service outside urban centers !

Good medical care is widely available in Panama City, but is extremely limited elsewhere. Many Visitors go to one of the following hospitals or clinics:

• Hospital Nacional (Ave. Cuba - Calle 38 and Calle 39, Panama City, tel. 507-207-8100, 24-hour emergency room tel. 207-8110; website http://www.hospitalnacional.com/english/index.php)

• Clinica Hospital San Fernando (Via Espana, Las Sabanas, Panama City; tel. 507-229-3800, 229-0300, 24-hour emergency room tel. 229-2004; website http://www.hospitalsanfernando.com/en/home/index.htm)

• Clinica Hospital San Fernando Hospital Pediatrico (Via Espana, Las Sabanas, Panama City; tel. 507-229-2299, 229-2477)

• Centro Medico Paitilla (Calle 53 y Ave. Balboa, Panama City; tel. 507-265-8800, 269-5222, emergency tel. 265-8888; 24-hour emergency room; ambulance service)