The city of David, Chiriquí, was bustling with activity this week during the largest surgical campaign ever recorded in the province. A total of 400 patients will be treated for cataracts, pterygium, and plastic surgery, many of whom have been waiting up to four years for an operation. The coordination is carried out by the Minsa, the CSS, and the 'Juntos por la Salud' initiative, with support from the U.S. Southern Command. People from Bocas del Toro, Veraguas, Panama, and various districts of Chiriquí arrived early at the Dr. Rafael Hernández L. Specialized Hospital Center, ready and hopeful of restoring their sight. Seniors over 60 represent the majority of cataract cases, while patients with pterygium are between 30 and 50 years old. All have been previously evaluated and have complete examinations to ensure safe surgeries. International support is strong: 23 American professionals, including specialized doctors, anesthesiologists, nurses, and support staff, are working alongside 7 Minsa professionals, while the CSS is responsible for supplying all supplies and coordinating the care of 100 patients on the waiting list. The integration between organizations demonstrates that it is possible to reduce the surgical backlog and effectively serve the population. Postoperative follow-up begins the day after each surgery and a follow-up appointment is scheduled for a week later. The combination of international cooperation and local effort allows hundreds of Panamanians to regain their sight and improve their quality of life, making it clear that health cannot wait and that these campaigns make a difference.
