New obligation for companies in Panama: Annual medical screenings

Law No. 522 of May 12, 2026 introduces new compliance obligations for companies in Panama regarding the prevention of non-communicable diseases.

One of the most significant requirements for the private sector is that companies must promote and coordinate, at least once a year, preventive screening programs for their employees.

The Law covers the following tests:

• Blood glucose

• Glycated hemoglobin

• Creatinine

• Lipid profile

• Blood pressure

• Body mass index

• Urinalysis

  
  

While the Law clarifies that private companies are not required to cover the cost of the tests, there is a legal obligation to facilitate or promote these preventive screening drives.

This means that Human Resources and Occupational Health departments must begin to:

• Coordinate annual screening drives

• Evaluate agreements with medical providers

• Update internal workplace wellness policies

• Implement medical confidentiality protocols

  
  

Important: employee participation is voluntary, and companies may not request diagnoses or clinical results.

This new regulation reflects a growing trend toward integrating prevention and wellness measures into the workplace. Companies are encouraged to assess their internal compliance and coordination mechanisms without delay.