AGP Executive Report

Health Tourism Push: The Dominican Republic cleared landmark legislation to make health tourism a national priority, aiming to boost patient safety, international accreditation, investment, innovation, and public-private coordination after 338,000 health tourists in 2023 generated over US$1.4B. Women’s Health Diplomacy: The country also formally joined the Geneva Consensus Declaration on women’s health and family, framing it as support for women’s access to health and stronger health systems. Hospital Safety Check: The Ministry of Public Health launched a technical sweep of eight major hospitals to identify gaps tied to maternal and infant morbidity and mortality, including infection control, water quality, sanitation, waste management, and clinical protocol compliance. Medicine Affordability: A bill would let health insurance affiliates accumulate unused monthly medicine allotments instead of losing them at month’s end. Eye Health Warning: A contact lens user says showering with lenses led to acanthamoeba keratitis and near-total vision loss, urging safer lens habits. Injury & Safety Lawsuit: Survivor Greece contestant Stavros Floros filed a $100M suit after a boat propeller severed his leg, alleging unsafe open-water conditions near tourist traffic. Regional Aid & Care: The Dominican Navy delivered 49 tons of humanitarian aid to Colombia, including medical supplies and medicines.

Hospital Oversight: The Ministry of Public Health launched a technical sweep of eight major hospitals to identify gaps tied to maternal and newborn deaths, with teams focused on infection control, water and waste, maternal-infant protocols, and supplies. Medicine Access: A bill in the Chamber of Deputies would let health insurance affiliates accumulate unused monthly medicine allotments instead of losing them at month’s end. Women’s Health Diplomacy: The Dominican Republic formally joined the US-backed Geneva Consensus Declaration on women’s health and family strengthening, a move that drew pushback from local social and human-rights organizations. Emergency Response: The COE and the Airport Department agreed to strengthen disaster coordination, using airport heliports and hospital landing facilities to speed rescue and transfers. Public Health & Travel Risks: Florida confirmed a locally acquired dengue case in Orange County; the report notes travel-associated exposure that includes the Dominican Republic. Health Workforce Cooperation: US Air Force medics joined a bilateral Amistad 2026 mission in La Vega, delivering medical, dental, optometry, pediatric, dermatology, and mental health services. Wellness Tourism: Hyatt opened the adults-only, all-inclusive Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana, highlighting wellness programming. Eye Safety Alert: A contact lens user says an everyday habit led to a rare amoeba infection that damaged her eyes—another reminder to follow safe lens care.

Hospital Safety Sweep: The Dominican Ministry of Public Health launched a technical evaluation of eight major public hospitals to find gaps driving maternal and infant deaths, with teams focused on infection control, water/sanitation and waste, maternal-infant clinical protocols, and supplies. Emergency Response Coordination: COE and the Airport Department agreed to strengthen disaster protocols by prioritizing heliports and hospital-network landing facilities to speed rescue, transfers, and emergency logistics. Dengue Watch (Regional): Florida confirmed a locally acquired dengue case in Orange County and reported 40+ locally acquired cases statewide in 2026; travel links included the Dominican Republic, underscoring mosquito-borne risk awareness. Health Diplomacy: U.S. Air Force medics joined “Amistad 2026” in La Vega, delivering medical, dental, optometry, pediatric, dermatology, and mental health services alongside Dominican teams. Prison Health Concerns: Relatives of a man who died at CCR Las Parras in Santo Domingo requested an exhaustive investigation after reports of trauma and that he was taken to a health center without vital signs. Public Health Training: PAHO/WHO and the Gorgas Institute ran a regional course in Panama to boost genomic surveillance skills for labs across the Dominican Republic and the region.

Aviation & Disaster Response: Commercial flights resumed at Venezuela’s main airport near Caracas after nearly 10 weeks of earthquake damage, but operations are still limited and passengers are processed through temporary facilities. Public Health & Water Safety: Dominican consumer watchdog Onpeco urged stronger protections to ensure safe, sufficient, and accessible drinking water during drought, calling for tighter oversight across production and distribution and faster action against non-compliant supplies. Housing Access: MIVED says it plans to deliver 1,600–2,000 homes from September to December and schedule groundbreaking for about 2,600 more, aiming to speed construction and reduce barriers in the sector. Healthcare System Transparency: A Santiago father is still waiting for autopsy results 10 months after his infant died under a state-subcontracted nonprofit, alleging negligence and demanding forensic transparency. Medical Innovation (Aesthetics): Medytox secured Colombian approval for three hyaluronic acid fillers (Atiere), positioning Colombia as a regional base after its earlier entry into the Dominican market. Energy Strategy: The Dominican Republic is exploring nuclear technology options with U.S. cooperation, including potential uses beyond electricity like nuclear medicine and environmental monitoring. Wellness Tourism: Hyatt opened Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana, an adults-only all-inclusive built around “Flow, Discovery, Presence,” including wellness programming like paddleboard yoga. Health & Safety Abroad (Travel Risk): A UK teen died after a tour boat explosion in the Dominican Republic, with an inquest citing septic shock following severe burns.

Maternal & newborn care: UNICEF says 68.2% of births in the Dominican Republic happen via cesarean section, far above global and regional averages, with private facilities especially high (89% vs 52.8% in public). Public health & water safety: Onpeco urges stronger oversight of drinking water during drought, calling for inspections across production, packaging, storage, transport and sale, plus action against non-compliant products. Child protection transparency: A father in Santiago says he’s still waiting 10 months for autopsy results after his infant died under a state-subcontracted nonprofit, alleging negligence and lack of access to forensic findings. Health system capacity (regional): PAHO/WHO and ICGES ran a bioinformatics course for genomic surveillance across the region, including the Dominican Republic, to better interpret pathogen data for public health decisions. Health & wellness tourism: Hyatt opened Hyatt Vivid Punta Cana, an adults-only all-inclusive built around Flow, Discovery and Presence, including wellness programming.

Maternal health alarm: UNICEF says 68.2% of births in the Dominican Republic happen by cesarean section, far above WHO averages, with private facilities at 89% vs 52.8% in public—urging a review of obstetric practices and better maternal and neonatal care. Drinking water pressure: Onpeco warns drought is turning into a public-health and consumer-protection risk, calling for stronger oversight of water production, inspections, and tougher action against non-compliant “potable” products. Housing push: MIVED says the government aims to deliver 1,600–2,000 homes in September–December, with groundbreaking planned for about 2,600 new houses. Disaster aid: The DR sent about 50 tons of humanitarian supplies to Colombia after an earthquake, including food, medicines, medical equipment, hygiene and cleaning items. Energy planning: The energy ministry is exploring nuclear technology options (including nuclear medicine and other uses) with U.S. cooperation, while not committing to a plant. Public safety tragedy: A British teen died after a boat explosion near Saona/Cotubanamá; reports say she suffered burns on 60% of her body and later died from septic shock.

Maternal health alarm: UNICEF says 68.2% of births in the Dominican Republic happened by cesarean section—far above WHO global estimates—especially in the private sector (89% vs 52.8% in public), urging a review of obstetric practices and safer, justified use of major surgery. Water safety amid drought: Onpeco warns that declining water sources are turning into a public health and consumer protection issue, calling for tighter oversight of drinking-water production, packaging, storage, transport, and inspections—plus stronger protection of watersheds and recharge areas. Disaster response with health supplies: The Dominican Republic sent about 50 tons of humanitarian aid to Colombia after an earthquake, including food, medicines, medical equipment, hygiene, and cleaning items. Health system know-how for expats: A new guide explains how to find doctors, choose hospitals, get prescriptions, and handle urgent care in the Dominican Republic’s private system. Nuclear medicine link: Energy officials say nuclear technology is being explored not only for power, but also for nuclear medicine, agriculture, water management, and environmental monitoring. Tourism safety concern: A British teen died after severe burns from a boat explosion near Saona; local hospitals treated dozens, and the cause is still under investigation.

Maternal health warning: UNICEF says 68.2% of births in the Dominican Republic happen via cesarean section, with rates far higher in the private sector (89%) than public hospitals (52.8%), urging a review of obstetric practices to balance lifesaving surgery with its risks. Patient safety focus: The DR will host the 3rd International Health Quality and Safety Forum on Sept. 16, centered on making safety a “system strategy” across healthcare management, public trust, and safer clinical research. Healthcare access for expats: A new guide explains how everyday care works in the DR—how to choose hospitals, find doctors and specialists, handle prescriptions, and what to do after hours. Public health and prevention: The Ministry of Public Health is intensifying dengue prevention efforts, while health leaders also highlight the need for stronger safety and quality systems. Health-related incident abroad tied to DR tourism: A UK teen died after fatal burns from a boat explosion near Saona; local care and outcomes are under scrutiny as families seek answers.

Maternal Health Watch: UNICEF says 68.2% of births in the Dominican Republic happen by cesarean section—far above WHO global averages—with private facilities especially high (89% vs 52.8% in public). The agency urges a review of obstetric practices because surgery without clear medical need can raise risks like infection and longer recovery. Patient Safety & Quality: The DR will host the International Health Quality and Safety Forum (Sept. 16) focused on “Safety as a System Strategy,” linking patient safety, public trust, and safer clinical research. Healthcare Access for Expats: A practical guide explains how healthcare works in the DR—how to choose a hospital, find doctors and specialists, handle prescriptions, and what to do after hours. Public Health in Focus: Authorities are intensifying dengue prevention efforts, while reports also highlight leptospirosis deaths in Nueva Ecija and the push for faster care and prevention around flood exposure. Health-Linked Tragedy: A British teen who died after a boat explosion near Saona Island had burns on 60% of her body; an inquest heard her death was linked to septic shock from burns.

Patient Safety & Quality: The Dominican Republic is set to host the 3rd International Health Quality and Safety Forum on Sept. 16, with a focus on making safety a “system strategy,” linking it to quality, public trust, and safer clinical research. Emergency Preparedness: The COE and the UN World Food Programme signed an agreement to strengthen disaster readiness, early warning, logistics, and emergency decision-making as the country faces hurricanes, floods, droughts, earthquakes, and more. Tourism Health Link: Puerto Plata’s “Tourism Close to You” program was launched to improve destination safety, sustainability, and quality—explicitly bringing in health services alongside hotels, transport, and community groups. Healthcare Access (How it works): A new guide for expats breaks down practical steps in Dominican healthcare—how to choose hospitals, find specialists, handle prescriptions, and what to do after-hours. Public Health (Dengue): The Ministry of Public Health is intensifying dengue prevention efforts. Infectious Disease Alert: Leptospirosis has caused 7 deaths in Nueva Ecija, with 103 cases reported since Jan. 1 to July 11, and officials urge avoiding floodwater and seeking care early. Local Health Capacity: A pediatric optometry mission in Santiago delivered 1,070 eye exams over five days, including follow-up for glaucoma patients and glasses for children. Health-Related Tragedy: A British teen, 16, died after a boat “explosion” near Saona Island; an inquest cited septic shock following severe burns. Health & Sports Integrity: MLB suspended a Dominican prospect tied to an alleged age- and identity-fraud scheme involving falsified records and a fake death certificate. Health & Economy: A report says a U.S. slowdown could be absorbed by the Dominican Republic, but it should be monitored for impacts on jobs, household income, remittances, and tourism. Business/Health Risk: Authorities seized illicit alcohol, premium cigarettes, and medicines in Villa Consuelo. Health Workforce (Regional): Haiti’s rural medical center is recruiting doctors and nurses, including former TPS holders, to meet growing demand.

Healthcare Access (Expats’ Corner): A new guide breaks down how to navigate Dominican Republic care day-to-day—how to choose a hospital, find doctors and specialists, handle prescriptions, and what to do when something happens at night. Patient Safety & Trust: The Dominican Republic is set to host the International Health Quality and Safety Forum (Sept. 16), focused on making safety a system strategy, strengthening public trust, and improving healthcare management and clinical research standards. Maternal/Infant Mortality Focus: The SNS says it’s pushing “zero tolerance” for preventable maternal and infant deaths, with new hospital leadership appointments at Padre Billini and Vicente Noble. Emergency Preparedness: The COE and the UN World Food Programme sign an agreement to boost disaster readiness, early warning, logistics, training, and recovery planning as the country faces hurricanes, floods, droughts, and earthquakes. Local Health Outreach: Puerto Plata launches “Tourism Close to You,” bringing tourism and health services into destination safety and sustainability planning. Sports & Youth Protection (Health Angle): New DR rules for baseball academies and leagues require standards for safety, health, nutrition, housing, transport, supervision, and medical care for minors.

Patient Safety Focus: The Dominican Republic is set to host the 3rd International Health Quality and Safety Forum on Sept. 16, with organizers CEMDOE and INTEGRA pushing “Safety as a System Strategy,” including safer clinical research and stronger healthcare governance. Emergency Preparedness: The COE and the UN World Food Programme signed an MoU to boost disaster readiness in the Dominican Republic, aiming to improve early warning, logistics, decision-making, and training for emergency teams. Tourism + Health Services: Puerto Plata launched “Tourism Close to You,” a program meant to strengthen destination safety, sustainability, and quality with local tourism partners, explicitly including health services in the value chain. Local Health System Leadership: The SNS moved to strengthen hospital management by appointing new directors at Padre Billini and Vicente Noble hospitals, and naming Jenny Olivero to lead the Jaime Mota Hospital. Public Health Messaging: While not Dominican, a major leptospirosis update highlights the risk from floods and animal urine exposure, with authorities urging protective measures and quick medical care when symptoms appear. Sports Regulation (Health Angle): New DR rules for professional and recreational baseball include safeguards for young athletes—covering safety, health, nutrition, housing, transport, supervision, and medical care.

Patient Safety & Quality: The Dominican Republic will host the 3rd International Health Quality and Safety Forum on Sept. 16, focusing on “Safety as a System Strategy,” linking clinical care with healthcare management, public trust, and safer clinical research. Emergency Preparedness: The COE and the UN World Food Programme signed an agreement to strengthen disaster readiness and response, including early warning, logistics, joint drills, and better damage assessment for hurricanes, floods, droughts, earthquakes, and more. Public Health (Dengue): The Ministry of Public Health is intensifying dengue prevention efforts. Infectious Disease (Leptospirosis): In Nueva Ecija, the Philippines reported 7 leptospirosis deaths among 103 cases (Jan. 1–July 11), with officials urging people to avoid floodwater and seek care early. Healthcare Leadership: SNS is strengthening hospital management by appointing new directors at Padre Billini and Vicente Noble hospitals, and naming Jenny Olivero to lead Jaime Mota Hospital. Local Health Systems: Haiti’s Higgins Brothers Surgicenter for Hope is recruiting doctors and nurses (including former TPS holders) to meet growing demand. Health & Wellness Access: A U.S. pediatric optometry mission in Santiago delivered 1,070 eye exams over five days, including care for glaucoma and follow-up for children needing glasses.

Leptospirosis Alert (Nueva Ecija): Seven deaths have been reported from leptospirosis in Nueva Ecija, with 103 cases logged from Jan. 1 to July 11. Victims ranged from ages 3 to 73, and most cases were linked to flood exposure and agriculture work. Health officials say they’re running information drives and providing doxycycline, urging people to seek care right away and avoid wading in floodwater without protection. Maternal & Newborn Care (SNS): The Dominican Republic’s National Health Service launched a tour of maternity hospitals, stressing “zero tolerance” for preventable maternal and infant deaths and calling for strict follow-through on pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn protocols. Disaster Readiness (COE + WFP): The COE and the UN World Food Programme signed an agreement to strengthen emergency preparedness, early warning, logistics, and training for disaster response. Health Workforce (Haiti, TPS-linked): A rural Haitian hospital is recruiting doctors and nurses, including former TPS holders, to meet rising demand as services expand. Travel & Wellness (All-inclusives): New Hyatt research finds 87% of travelers have considered all-inclusive resorts, reflecting growing demand for wellness-friendly vacation options across the Caribbean.

Dengue Watch: The Ministry of Public Health is intensifying dengue prevention nationwide, pushing “Eliminate, Clean and Cover” to cut Aedes aegypti breeding with fumigation, community cleanups, and home steps like removing standing water and covering tanks. Maternal Care Push: SNS Director Dr. Julio Landrón toured maternity hospitals and set “zero tolerance” for preventable maternal and infant deaths, urging strict protocol follow-through for pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn emergencies. Leptospirosis Update: In Nueva Ecija, 7 deaths were reported among 103 leptospirosis cases (Jan. 1–July 11), with officials urging people to avoid floodwater and seek care early; doxycycline and public information drives are underway. Emergency Preparedness: COE and the UN World Food Programme signed an agreement to strengthen disaster readiness, early warning, logistics, and training for emergency teams. Health System Leadership: SNS also strengthened hospital management by appointing new directors at Padre Billini and Vicente Noble hospitals and naming Jenny Olivero for the Jaime Mota Hospital. Sports & Health Regulation: The government approved new rules for professional and recreational baseball, including safety, health, nutrition, and medical care standards for academies and protections for minors.

Maternal & Infant Care Push: Dominican Republic’s National Health Service (SNS) director Dr. Julio Landrón toured maternity hospitals, stressing “zero tolerance” for preventable maternal and infant deaths and urging strict follow-through on obstetric and newborn protocols. Dengue Prevention Drive: The Ministry of Public Health is intensifying dengue control nationwide with fumigation, community cleanups, and the “Eliminate, Clean and Cover” message to remove standing water and properly cover and clean tanks. Health System Reform Abroad: Health Minister Víctor Atallah is in Washington presenting progress on transforming the health system at PAHO and OAS, focusing on access, innovation, digital health, and stronger health leadership. Pet Travel Made Easier: DIGEGA says veterinary health certificate processing for exporting dogs and cats has been streamlined to minutes, supporting safer international pet movement. Trade & Investment Health Link: President Abinader highlighted U.S. tariff negotiations as a priority while aiming to preserve free-trade-zone incentives—key for jobs and economic stability that affect health services.