Panama's decision to offer medical insurance to tourists is an "eye catcher", according to the director general at the Ministry of Tourism.
David Johnson said the new program, brought into force last month, is an excellent way to promote the destination and highlight its medical tourism offerings.
So should The Bahamas implement a similar system?
"First we need to expand our facilities," Johnson said.  "There are some private operators moving in that direction.  We are not quite there yet in terms of having the reputation as a leading center of such services."
Last month, Solomon Shamah, the minister of tourism in Panama, officially announced a medical insurance program for tourists that covers them for the first 30 days in the country.  Italian insurance company Assicurazioni Generali acquired a two-year contract to issue the policies in collaboration with the Panamanian government.
In essence, the way the system works is any visitor coming through Panama's Tocumen International Airport can pick up a brochure and user card at a tourism information center.  Tourists can present this card in the event of illness or injury at any medical center.
The policy covers accidental death (up to $20,000), hospitalization and medical expenses for injuries up to $7,000, and even insurance for dental emergencies worth $2,000.
Incidents caused by drugs, alcohol, negligence or extreme sports are not covered by the policy.
"Health insurance is an incentive for tourists visiting Panama and all its attractions.  Those who take advantage of health services in the country will see that Panama is an ideal place for medical tourism, with highly trained physicians and hospitals," said Shamah in a statement.
In response, Johnson told Guardian Business the concept could work well in The Bahamas once the medical infrastructure is brought up to international standards.
He said the country has the "right climate" and is in the "right location" to be competitive.
The private sector could indeed step up and provide a leading role in such a program, he added, with the Ministry of Tourism offering support.
"The government benefits from those transactions and through other means.  It's a good idea," Johnson said.  "It's an eye catcher and a good way of positioning ourselves.  I know Panama is aggressively pursuing this sector and it seems to be gaining a lot of ground."

Click here to read more at The Nassau Guardian