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Panama is taking decisive steps to enhance its national healthcare system by reinforcing its commitment to primary healthcare. The Ministry of Health has established the Consultative Committee for Primary Health Care, under the Alliance for Primary Health Care in the Americas, a strategic initiative led by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the World Bank, and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). This initiative is designed to strengthen Panama’s health system, improve service delivery, and promote equitable access to quality care.
PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa highlighted Panama’s leadership, stating, “I congratulate the Ministry of Health of Panama for its vision for the future, adding a new chapter to its history of decisive advances to improve the health and well-being of its population.” This recognition underscores Panama’s role as a regional leader in advancing primary healthcare initiatives and fostering collaboration among international partners.
The Consultative Committee will serve as a platform for technical cooperation, resource mobilization, and strategic investment in primary healthcare. Its objectives include supporting evidence-based policy development, improving access to healthcare services across urban and rural areas, and integrating telemedicine in Panama to expand coverage in remote communities. By establishing this Committee, Panama is ensuring that primary healthcare remains a cornerstone of its health system reforms.
Minister of Health Dr. Fernando Boyd Galindo emphasized that health investments are essential for both the well-being of citizens and the country’s economic growth. “Health is not an expense; it is an investment in people, social cohesion, and sustainable development,” he noted. This initiative will help Panama address emerging challenges, including demographic changes, increasing rates of non-communicable diseases, and the health effects of climate change.
The Consultative Committee also focuses on promoting universal health coverage in Panama. By aligning national priorities with regional strategies, the committee ensures that vulnerable populations gain access to essential services such as preventive care, maternal and child health, and mental health programs. The initiative is expected to enhance Panama’s primary healthcare programs by integrating innovative solutions and strengthening local health infrastructure.
Additionally, the program emphasizes monitoring and evaluation, enabling continuous improvement in the quality and efficiency of healthcare delivery. Stakeholders from the Ministry of Health, PAHO, IDB, World Bank, and local community representatives will work together to track progress and identify opportunities to expand access, ensure equity, and maximize the impact of health investments.
Through this initiative, Panama reaffirms its commitment to strengthening primary healthcare, supporting universal health coverage, and positioning itself as a model for regional health system reforms.
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