How to get an ambulance in Boquete late at night

Short answer: Don’t count on it.

If you expect to call 911 and have help at your door in 30 seconds, you are in the wrong country.

In a life-threatening emergency, you can’t afford to waste time. You need to have an agreement with neighbors that you can call for help included in your emergency plan — taped to your refrigerator or somewhere equally accessible. Don’t have a plan? Get the form here:Emergency contact worksheet

Even Rodny Direct members have been disappointed to learn that he cannot conjure up an ambulance in the middle of the night if one simply isn’t available. Rodny has helped thousands of expats navigate difficult problems. However, Rodny cannot guarantee the performance of emergency responders.

The Reality of Ambulance Service in Boquete

• There is only one public ambulance available at night. If it’s already on a call, you’re out of luck. To use it, you must first be evaluated by a doctor, which means getting yourself to the clinic. They need to confirm your situation is serious and that you’re stable enough for transport.

• It is illegal for taxis to transport seriously ill patients to the hospital unless a medical professional is present. Taxi drivers are liable if the patient dies en route. For the same reason, Rodny cannot call a taxi to take you to the hospital.

• You can call a private ambulance company, but late at night, they may need to locate a driver, an EMT, and a working vehicle—and then find your house.

The Best Way to Get to the Hospital in an Emergency

Don’t waste time! If you can’t get a private ambulance immediately, drive yourself or have a friend drive you to the hospital. Use your emergency flashers and drive as quickly as you safely can. If the police see you, they will escort you to the hospital.

So, MAKE A PLAN—and when a medical emergency happens, follow it. It’s up to you.