Does Centro Médico Mae Lewis in Boquete Have X-Ray Services?

Yes, Centro Médico Mae Lewis in Boquete offers both X-ray and ultrasound services with costs around $22 using the jubilado (retiree) discount, providing same-day or 24-hour results. The CSS clinic in Bajo Boquete offers an alternative option for approximately $25.

X-Ray Services at Mae Lewis Boquete

Multiple residents have recently confirmed getting X-rays done at the Boquete location. The service is available and operational, making it convenient for everything from checking on a suspicious cough to evaluating a potential fracture after a hiking mishap.

What Imaging Services They Offer

• X-rays: Available on-site for chest, extremity, and other standard radiographic imaging
• Ultrasound: Also available for abdominal, pelvic, and other soft tissue examinations
• Cost: Around $22 with jubilado (retiree) discount - remarkably affordable
• Turnaround: Results typically available same day or within 24 hours

Location and Contact

Centro Médico Mae Lewis is located in downtown Boquete, easily accessible from anywhere in town. You can find it on Google Maps for exact directions. Walk-ins are accepted, though calling ahead can help ensure the imaging department is staffed and ready. Learn more about other Mae Lewis services.

A Note About Availability

Here's something important to know: some visitors have reported being told the X-ray machine wasn't available, while others got their imaging done without any issues the same week. This inconsistency might be due to:

• Temporary equipment maintenance or technical issues
• Specific staff scheduling - the technician may not be present every day
• Miscommunication between reception and medical departments
• High demand on certain days

If you're told the service isn't available, it's worth asking again on a different day or calling ahead to confirm when the X-ray technician will be present. Many locals and expats have successfully had X-rays done there recently, so persistence often pays off.

Alternative Option: CSS Clinic (Caja de Seguro Social)

If Mae Lewis doesn't work out for whatever reason, there's another affordable option right in Boquete: the Social Security clinic (CSS). This public health facility serves both Panamanians and legal residents.

CSS Clinic Details

• Location: Bajo Boquete, across from the fire department (bomberos)
• Cost: Around $25 maximum for an X-ray
• Language: Bring someone who speaks Spanish if yours isn't strong - staff may have limited English
• Hours: Generally weekday mornings; confirm current schedule by calling ahead

Step-by-Step: How to Get an X-Ray at CSS

The process at CSS involves a few more steps than a private clinic, but it's straightforward once you know the system:

1. Get a prescription: Obtain a written prescription for your X-ray from a doctor (can be from any licensed physician)
2. Purchase a blank disk: Buy a blank CD or DVD for the X-ray images - these are available at Mandarin or other local shops
3. Go to the CSS clinic: Bring your prescription and disk to the clinic
4. Hand in your paperwork: Give them your prescription and disk at the X-ray department
5. Get your receipt: They'll provide a receipt for the service
6. Register at the front window: Take the invoice to the front window by the caja (cashier) to register
7. Pay at the caja: Make your payment (cash preferred)
8. Return to X-ray department: Take your paid invoice back to the X-ray area
9. Wait to be called: Have a seat and wait for your turn

It sounds more complicated than it actually is - locals say the staff are quick and efficient once you're in the system. The whole process typically takes 30-60 minutes including wait time.

When to Go to David Instead

For more complex imaging like MRIs, CT scans, or specialized ultrasounds, you'll need to go to David. Hospital Chiriquí has comprehensive imaging facilities including MRI. The 45-minute drive is worth it for advanced diagnostics that simply aren't available in smaller clinics.

Tips for Getting Imaging in Boquete

• Call ahead: Confirm the X-ray service is available before making the trip
• Bring your jubilado card: The discounts are significant and apply at most facilities
• Bring previous images: If you have prior X-rays for comparison, bring them along
• Ask for a copy: Request your images on disk so you have them for future reference or second opinions
• Morning visits: Clinics tend to be less busy in the early morning