WITH Just 7 months to World Youth Day (WYD) IN Panama the Ministry of Health (MINSA) is training emergency personnel to resolve difficult situations that arise in the month of January 2019, when scores of thousands of pilgrims will arrive on Panamanian soil potentially putting a strain on Panama’ already strained and underfunded health services.

Health clinics will have staff on standby during weekends and evenings

Around 16 officials, including doctors, paramedics and nurses from the 15 regions of the country, held drills this weekend related to emergency care as part of the first course of instructors developed by the Ministry.

A press release says that the initiative aims to "prepare the staff to achieve greater coverage in provinces such as Chiriqui, Bocas del Toro, Darién and Colon, extreme points where pilgrims are expected to arrive. "

From recognition of the use of weapons, to their treatment, initial ation in unforeseen situations and the management of risk, among other skills; were the focus in the  Ministry workshop.

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