Delivering healthcare with a human touch
Dr Maria Cecilia Aponte, International Business Director for The Panama Clinic, tells us about medical tourism, their recent award win, and prioritising empathy
You have been with The Panama Clinic for over four years. How has your role changed in that time?
My journey has been one of dynamic evolution and strategic growth. Initially focused on positioning The Panama Clinic in the International arena, I’ve since expanded my responsibilities to collaborate closely with the Panamanian government in establishing Panama as a premier destination for medical tourism. While continuing to drive our clinic’s global presence, I’ve also played a pivotal role in shaping Panama’s reputation as a leading hub for healthcare excellence – from a focus on clinic-centric objectives to broader strategic initiatives that benefit both our institution and the nation as a whole.
The Latin American market has really opened up in the last ten years. Why do you think that is, and what challenges do businesses face in the region?
The significant growth in medical tourism in the past decade is due to several factors such as high-quality medical care at competitive prices, attracting cost-conscious patients from around the world. Additionally, the advancement in technology, healthcare infrastructure and quality-focus thinking have enhanced the capabilities of Latin American hospitals and clinics, making them more attractive destinations for medical tourism. But what really stands out, from my perspective, is that in Latin cultures’ warmth and empathy, interpersonal connections are deeply ingrained values, influencing the way healthcare is delivered. Unlike other regions where healthcare can be perceived as more transactional, Latin American healthcare providers prioritise the human aspect of medicine, taking the time to understand each patient’s unique needs and concerns. As regards challenges, I think LatAm is in a very complicated time where political changes and instability are a constant.
The Panama Clinic were recently nominated, and won, an EMT Award. Tell us why this is so important for the clinic?
For us, this award validates our commitment to excellence. It’s a recognition for our outstanding performance, inspired staff, great medical outcomes, and incredible patient satisfaction.
What do you think makes you stand out from the crowd?
What sets us apart is our unwavering focus on humanity and our unparalleled infrastructure. Our dedication to putting patients and family members first ensures a compassionate and personalised experience while our stateof-the-art facilities guarantee world-class medical care. This combination of a humancentric approach and top-notch infrastructure distinguishes us as leaders in the field, providing patients with unparalleled quality and comfort in their healthcare journey
Latin American healthcare
providers prioritise the human
aspect of medicine
What’s next for The Panama Clinic?
For The Panama Clinic, our commitment to patients, their families, and society at large remains steadfast. Moving forward, our focus is on continuous improvement and innovation, ensuring that we not only meet but exceed expectations every day. We will continue to invest in cutting-edge medical technologies, expand our range of services, and enhance the patient experience. Additionally, we aim to strengthen our partnerships both domestically and internationally, further solidifying our position as a leader in healthcare excellence. Our journey ahead is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.