A strong controversy broke out this Tuesday in the National Assembly with the arrival at the first debate of Bill 255, which seeks to regulate the profession of technicians and licensed surgical instrumentators in Panama. This initiative has already sparked clashes between health guilds. The proposal, which is being discussed again in the Commission on Labor, Health and Social Development, has generated discomfort and rejection because it would allow these professionals to enter operating rooms only by obtaining professional competence. According to opponents, this measure would directly affect the functions of nurses and other health technicians, as well as patient safety.
Clashing Positions in the Commission
Key figures from the health sector attended the debate, including Vielka Rosero, president of the National Association of Nursing Practitioners and Technicians (ANPATE); Felipe Ríos, president of the National Association of Nurses of Panama; Eusebia Calderón de Copete; and Carmen Vega, president of the Surgical Instrumentators, who defended opposing positions in a tense atmosphere. The project was presented by Deputy Jamis Acosta, who explained that the initiative seeks to grant formal competence and a clear legal framework to surgical instrumentators, recognizing their academic training and functions within the health system.
Concerns over Competencies and Safety
However, the Association of Nurses of Panama, ANPATE and other guilds stated that the project invades professional competencies and could alter the work dynamics in operating rooms, which —they warned— would represent a risk to patient safety and the quality of medical care.
