Finding a Doctor for Minor Procedures in Boquete: Glass Removal and Quick Fixes

Boquete offers 3 primary options for minor procedures like glass removal: Mae Lewis Clinic with walk-in service until 11 PM ($20-50 per procedure), MINSA Emergency with 24/7 availability, and experienced doctors including Dr. Gomez and Dr. Shannon Lynn Tuer who specialize in minor wound care and quick fixes.

Walk-In Clinics for Minor Procedures

Mae Lewis Clinic

This is the most popular choice among expats for minor procedures and general medical care. The convenience of walk-in service without appointments makes it ideal for unexpected injuries.

• Hours: Open until 11:00 PM - great for evening emergencies
• Wait times: Generally not crowded, especially in the late afternoon or early evening
• Best for: Walk-in visits, minor procedures, wound care, general consultations
• Languages: Staff includes English speakers or can find translation help
• Cost: Minor procedures typically $20-50 depending on complexity

The late hours are particularly valuable - if you step on glass at 8 PM, you have options beyond waiting until morning or driving to David. Learn more about Mae Lewis imaging services.

MINSA Emergency (Public Health System)

The public health system's emergency room is available for urgent care needs. This is a solid option if you need immediate attention outside of regular clinic hours or on weekends.

• Hours: 24/7 emergency services
• Cost: Generally lower than private clinics
• Wait times: Can vary depending on severity of cases ahead of you
• Language: Spanish primarily - bring a translator if needed

Recommended Doctors for Minor Procedures

Dr. Gomez

A well-known and trusted doctor in the expat community for many years. He's currently back to seeing patients after some time away, and many longtime expats have relied on him for everything from minor procedures to ongoing care. His experience with the expat community means he understands our needs and concerns.

Dr. Shannon Lynn Tuer

Has specific experience with minor procedures like glass removal and wound care. Her clinic also hosts visiting specialists, including a general surgeon once a week (Dr. Caballero), which is convenient if your minor procedure turns out to need more attention. Her practice is well-regarded for handling the everyday medical needs of expat life. Read about specialist visits at her clinic.

Home Remedies That Actually Work

Before heading to the doctor, some expats have had success with these DIY approaches for embedded glass or splinters. These are worth trying if the object is small and superficial:

Hot Water Soak Method

Soak your foot (or affected area) in very hot water - as hot as you can comfortably tolerate - for 15-20 minutes. Sometimes the heat causes the skin to soften and the glass or splinter to work its way out on its own. This works best for very small, shallow fragments.

Duct Tape Method

Apply a piece of duct tape firmly over the area, press down well, and pull off quickly. This can sometimes extract small pieces of glass or splinters that are just barely embedded. Repeat several times if needed. Many expats swear by this method for tiny glass shards.

Tweezers and Alcohol

If you can see the glass or splinter and it's near the surface:

1. Sterilize tweezers with rubbing alcohol or by holding in a flame
2. Clean the affected area with alcohol
3. Use good lighting and possibly a magnifying glass
4. Grasp the visible end firmly and pull in the direction it entered
5. Clean and bandage afterward

When to Skip DIY and See a Doctor

• You can't see or locate the foreign object
• The area is deeply embedded or bleeding significantly
• Signs of infection appear (redness, swelling, warmth, pus)
• The object is large or near joints, tendons, or blood vessels
• You have diabetes or compromised immune system
• Your tetanus vaccination isn't current

Tips for Clinic Visits

• Bring cash: While some clinics accept cards, cash is always reliable and often preferred
• Go in the afternoon: Clinics tend to be less crowded later in the day, meaning shorter waits
• Ask about costs upfront: Minor procedures are generally very affordable, but it's good to know what to expect before they start
• Language preparation: Many doctors speak English or have staff who can translate, but having key medical terms in Spanish doesn't hurt
• Bring your cedula or passport: You'll need identification for their records

Preventing Common Injuries

A few tips from fellow expats to avoid these minor emergencies:

• Wear sturdy shoes when hiking - flip-flops invite trouble on our mountain trails
• Keep a good first aid kit at home with tweezers, antiseptic, and bandages
• Sweep carefully after breaking glass - tiny shards hide in grout and corners
• Wear garden gloves when working with plants, especially those with thorns