AGP Executive Report

WHO Global Health Policy: At the 79th World Health Assembly, WHO member states adopted 20+ decisions and 13 resolutions on stroke, TB, antimicrobial resistance, emergency care, precision medicine and more, while also agreeing to reform global health architecture through a Member State-led process. Metro Accident (Santo Domingo): A 63-year-old German man is stable after falling onto Santo Domingo Metro tracks; doctors say a sudden neurological episode tied to a prior stroke caused loss of muscle strength, leading to the fall and injuries including a fractured ankle. Local Health System Output: The Dominican National Health Service (SNS) reported a record 25.3M specialized services from January–June 2026, alongside major equipment investment to expand diagnostic, surgical and specialized care. Public Health & Safety (Wellness Risks): In the U.S., police charged an unlicensed doctor (licensed in the Dominican Republic only) after a 27-year-old woman died following an “anti-aging” serum injection at a Bronx wellness center; authorities say an autopsy will determine the cause of death. Disease Burden (Regional): A new study in The Lancet Regional Health—Americas estimates nearly 470M people in the Americas live with neurological disorders, shifting the burden from premature death toward long-term disability. Food Safety/Trade: The U.S. temporarily suspended Dominican mango imports over phytosanitary protocol issues, though officials say most mangoes were already exported and compliance steps are planned.

Emergency Medical Coverage: The DAEH will deploy 70 ambulances and 300 staff to provide rapid pre-hospital care during the Santo Domingo 2026 Central American and Caribbean Games (July 24–Aug 8). Public Health & Safety: A man fell onto Santo Domingo Metro tracks at Juan Pablo Duarte station; EMT protocols were activated and he was taken to Dr. Ney Arias Lora University Hospital with a fractured ankle and other injuries, reported as stable. Food Security Milestone: FAO says the Dominican Republic has exited the global hunger map after undernourishment fell below the 2.5% threshold, crediting coordinated national policies and programs like school feeding and social support. Health Tech Training: MESCYT signed an agreement with Casio to expand training for teachers and students in AI, robotics, science, and math. Budget & Public Services: The government submitted a bill to amend the 2026 budget, including added funding for public health and reallocations across ministries. Wellness Risks: A Bronx case involving an unlicensed practitioner administering an “anti-aging” NAD+ IV ended in death, renewing calls for stricter medical oversight.

Unlicensed Anti-Aging Death in the Bronx: A 27-year-old woman, Elizabeth Baron, died after an unlicensed doctor allegedly administered an IV NAD+ “anti-aging” infusion at a Bronx wellness center; police say the 55-year-old, Luis Rojas Cabrera, admitted he wasn’t licensed to practice in New York and was charged with reckless endangerment and unauthorized practice. Local Mental Health Court Order: In Santo Domingo West, a woman accused in her 10-year-old daughter’s death was sent to a psychiatric ward (Najayo) for treatment while the case proceeds. Dominican Republic Exits Global Hunger Map: FAO says the country dropped under the 2.5% threshold for undernourishment, crediting food security programs and resilience efforts. Health System Output Record: The National Health Service (SNS) reported a historic 25.3M specialized services delivered in the first half of 2026, alongside major equipment investments. Public Safety Incident: Metro authorities activated emergency protocols after a person entered the tracks at Juan Pablo Duarte station; the EMT has not shared health details.

Psychiatric Detention in Child-Death Case: A Santo Domingo West court ordered three months’ internment in a psychiatric center for Glenny Talleria, accused in the death of her 10-year-old daughter, with her defense saying she has a history of major depression and other conditions. Public Health Services Boost: The Dominican National Health Service (SNS) reported a record 25.3 million specialized services delivered in the first half of 2026, alongside hospital and primary care equipment investments. Food Security Milestone: The FAO says the Dominican Republic has exited the global hunger map after undernourishment fell below 2.5%, crediting national food security policies and programs like school feeding and social support. Mango Export Pressure: The U.S. temporarily suspended Dominican mango imports over phytosanitary protocol concerns tied to fruit fly management, though officials say most shipments were already underway. Wellness Safety Warning: In the U.S., an unlicensed Dominican-linked practitioner was arrested after a Bronx woman died following an “anti-aging” NAD+ injection, raising concerns about unregulated treatments. Global Context: FAO also highlighted continued global hunger declines, while warning climate and trade risks could slow progress.

Public Health System Output: The National Health Service (SNS) logged a historic 25,395,290 specialized services from January–June 2026, its highest first-semester production, citing stronger monitoring of health centers, follow-up meetings, supervision visits, and hospital/primary care equipment upgrades. Mental Health in Detention: A forensic psychiatrist warned that about 80% of people deprived of liberty in the Dominican Republic have mental health problems, arguing the justice system must integrate psychiatric care instead of relying only on imprisonment. Prison Health & Justice Pressure: Families protested deaths linked to National Police officers, alleging lack of medical attention after detainees fell ill while in custody, with autopsy results pending. Food Safety & Exports (Mango): The Ministry of Agriculture rolled out tighter phytosanitary controls for Dominican mango exports, including fruit-fly monitoring upgrades and trap oversight, after U.S. recommendations. Health Cooperation: The Dominican Republic sent 1,749 vaccines to Venezuela (including pentavalent hepatitis B and polio) and also returned after a humanitarian mission providing care to thousands. Wellness Safety Alert: While not local, reports from the U.S. describe a fatal “anti-aging” injection case at a Bronx wellness center run by an unlicensed doctor, underscoring risks of unregulated treatments.

US Mango Ban: The U.S. APHIS temporarily suspended Dominican mango imports after the Dominican Republic failed to meet 2023 phytosanitary requirements, including fruit fly (Caribbean Fruit Fly) management and a flies-per-trap-per-day target. Local Agriculture Response: The Ministry of Agriculture says the impact is limited because most yellow-skinned mangos were already exported (85%-90%), and it will tighten monitoring, inspect all traps, and upgrade data systems to keep access to the U.S. and Europe. Mango Export Controls: A separate update details new phytosanitary measures—appointing a fruit fly monitoring coordinator and strengthening trap oversight in Peravia, the main export-producing province. Prison Mental Health: A forensic psychiatrist warned that about 80% of people deprived of liberty in the Dominican Republic have mental health problems, calling for psychiatric care inside the justice system. Dengue Watch: The Ministry of Public Health reported 171 dengue cases in 2026 (down 8% year-on-year), plus one new leptospirosis case and reminders about mental health support via the 711 hotline. Health Safety Alert (Abroad): In the Bronx, a woman died after an anti-aging injection at a holistic wellness center; police arrested an unlicensed doctor, raising concerns about unsafe medical practices.

Mental Health in Prisons: Forensic psychiatrist Nubia Lluberes warned that nearly 80% of people deprived of liberty in the Dominican Republic have mental health problems, far above the estimated 20% in the general population, urging psychiatric care to be integrated into the justice system. Humanitarian Health Response: The Dominican Republic’s Emergency Medical Team returned from a 12-day humanitarian mission in Venezuela, reporting care for 2,502 people and 1,413 general medicine consultations. Vaccines for Venezuela: Venezuela received 1,749 vaccines from the Dominican Republic, including pentavalent hepatitis B and polio, plus syringes, medicines, biosafety supplies, oxygen masks, and baby food. Dengue Update: The Ministry of Public Health reported 171 dengue cases in 2026 (incidence 3.10 per 100,000), with activity within expected levels; it also confirmed one new leptospirosis case and highlighted a free mental health hotline (711). Local Care Access & Emergencies: A 15-year-old needs US$7,500 for a sixth specialized surgery in the U.S., while a teen died after severe burns from an alleged gasoline accident in Hato Nuevo. Health Policy & Tourism: The Senate Tourism Commission advanced bills to promote gastronomic tourism and create a National Council for the Development of Health Tourism (CONDETUSA).

Humanitarian Health Aid: Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Health sent Venezuela 1,749 vaccines, including pentavalent hepatitis B and polio, plus syringes, medicines, biosafety boxes, oxygen masks, and baby food—delivered by Minister Víctor Atallah as part of ongoing Quisqueya Solidaria support. Mental Health & Justice: Forensic psychiatrist Nubia Lluberes warned that nearly 80% of people in Dominican prisons have mental health problems versus about 20% in the general population, urging psychiatric care to be integrated into the justice system. Public Health Watch: The Ministry of Public Health reported 171 dengue cases in 2026 (incidence 3.10 per 100,000), with a small decrease year-on-year, plus one new leptospirosis case; ahead of World Brain Day, officials promoted prevention and the free mental health hotline 711. Care Access & Costs: A Santo Domingo family is raising US$7,500 for a 15-year-old with cerebral palsy to undergo a sixth specialized surgery in the U.S., covering travel and recovery expenses. Health System Response in Disasters: The Emergency Medical Team returned from a 12-day Venezuela mission, treating 2,502 people during earthquake-related care. Food Safety Alert (Regional): Canada is monitoring cyclospora risk tied to imported produce amid a U.S. outbreak, highlighting how washing alone may not be enough.

Humanitarian Health Response: Dominican Republic’s Emergency Medical Team returned after a 12-day earthquake mission in Venezuela, treating 2,502 people and delivering a major share of international care. Public Health Update: The Ministry of Public Health reported 171 dengue cases in 2026 (incidence 3.10 per 100,000), plus 179 leptospirosis cases; officials also promoted brain and mental health ahead of World Brain Day with a free hotline (711). Health Access & Care Costs: A family is raising US$7,500 for a 15-year-old’s sixth specialized surgery in the U.S. due to worsening cerebral palsy complications. Health System & Policy: Senate Tourism Commission advanced bills to boost gastronomic and health tourism, including creating a National Council for the Development of Health Tourism (CONDETUSA). Safety & Emergency Care: A 16-year-old died after severe burns in an alleged gasoline accident in Santo Domingo Oeste; authorities say the case is under investigation. Well-being Snapshot: DR ranked 64th in the World Happiness Report 2026, scoring 6.093/10.

Dengue Update: The Ministry of Public Health reported 171 dengue cases in 2026 (week 26), an 8% drop versus last year, with incidence at 3.10 per 100,000; officials also logged one new leptospirosis case (179 total) and reported no new cholera or malaria. Mental Health Push: Ahead of World Brain Day (July 22), the ministry urged early action on brain health, noting up to 45% of dementia cases could be prevented, delayed, or treated, and promoted the free “Take Care of Your Mental Health” hotline at 711. Health Access & Costs: A family in Santo Domingo is seeking public help to raise US$7,500 for a 15-year-old with cerebral palsy needing a sixth specialized surgery in the U.S., with funds covering travel and recovery expenses. Public Health Cooperation: Direct Relief said it delivered medical aid shipments to 23 countries, including ongoing support for Venezuela’s earthquake response through partners providing brigades and patient connections. Local Safety & Care: Community Police ran a “Water, Fire and Virtue” summer camp in Los Guandules reaching 200+ children, mixing recreation with education and preventive community support. Justice & Custody Concerns: Protests returned over deaths tied to National Police custody in San Cristóbal; Abinader said authorities are investigating before conclusions.

Dengue Update: The Ministry of Public Health reports 171 dengue cases in 2026, with incidence at 3.10 per 100,000—an 8% drop versus last year—while also noting one new leptospirosis case (total 179) and no new cholera or malaria. Maternal & Infant Health: The same bulletin records five maternal deaths this week (68 total) and 24 infant deaths (795 total), with figures down from the same period in 2025. Brain Health Push: Ahead of World Brain Day (July 22), officials urge early action on modifiable risks and point to the free “Take Care of Your Mental Health” hotline at 711. Major Local Fundraising: A family is seeking US$7,500 for a 15-year-old with cerebral palsy to cover travel and recovery for a sixth specialized surgery in the U.S., after nearly US$3,500 has already been raised. Pension System Watch: Pension funds exceed RD$1.3 trillion, but worker contributions remain among the lowest in the region, with many employees in low-income and informal work. Police Custody Death Inquiry: President Abinader says authorities are investigating the death of “Miguelito” after days in National Police custody in San Cristóbal, following relatives’ claims of assault and denied medical transfer. Health Tourism Policy: The Senate Tourism Commission advances bills to promote gastronomic tourism and create a National Council for the Development of Health Tourism (CONDETUSA).

Dengue Update: The Ministry of Public Health reported 171 dengue cases in 2026, with incidence down 8% versus last year, plus one new leptospirosis case (179 total) and no new cholera or malaria. Maternal & Infant Health: Five maternal deaths were recorded this week (68 total) and 24 infant deaths (795 total), down from 896 in the same period of 2025. Brain Health Push: Ahead of World Brain Day (July 22), officials urged early action on dementia risk factors and promoted the free “Take Care of Your Mental Health” hotline at 711 for confidential support. Health Tourism Lawmaking: The Senate Tourism Commission is moving two bills—one to promote gastronomic tourism and another to create CONDETUSA, a national council to regulate and promote health tourism. Local Safety & Prevention: Community Police ran a “Water, Fire and Virtue” summer camp in Los Guandules for 200+ children, mixing recreation with values education and community donations. Public Health Context: Abinader said the DR will not deploy troops to Haiti’s UN-backed gang force, limiting support to medical, humanitarian, and logistics. Violence & Care Access: Police arrested a woman in Santo Domingo Norte accused in the stabbing death of her partner, who died while receiving medical assistance.

Mental Health Expansion: The Dominican Republic’s National Health Service (SNS) says it’s boosting mental health care nationwide, with 314 crisis-intervention beds now available and a goal to exceed 500 before the end of 2026, plus strengthened hospital mental health units, family awareness sessions, and new Psychosocial Centers under construction in Higüey and Moca. Health Cooperation (US-DR): Vice President Raquel Peña and Health Minister Víctor Atallah met U.S. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in Washington to advance a 5-year health partnership focused on disease prevention, epidemiological surveillance, lab capacity, digital health, emergency preparedness, mental health, chronic disease prevention, and essential medicine supply chains. Public Health & Safety: A 16-year-old died after allegedly catching fire while handling a gallon of gasoline in Hato Nuevo, Manoguayabo; authorities say the case is under investigation. Community Wellness: Community Police ran a “Water, Fire and Virtue” summer camp in Los Guandules reaching 200+ children and residents, combining education, recreation, and donations to support youth well-being. Local Health Context for Expats: A new guide for expats breaks down how DR healthcare works, highlighting the role of private hospitals and the importance of choosing the right insurance.

Mental Health Expansion: The Dominican public health system (SNS) says it’s pushing mental health care forward, with 314 crisis intervention beds now in place and a goal to exceed 500 by end-2026, plus strengthened hospital mental health units, anti-stigma awareness, and new Psychosocial Centers under construction in Higüey and Moca. Health Diplomacy: Vice President Raquel Peña and Health Minister Víctor Atallah met U.S. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in Washington to advance a 5-year health cooperation plan, including disease prevention, lab and surveillance upgrades, digital health, emergency preparedness, and chronic disease prevention. Happiness & Well-Being: The Dominican Republic ranked 64th out of 147 in the World Happiness Report 2026 (score 6.093/10), and a related analysis found no statistically significant link between using more social media platforms and life satisfaction. Public Safety & Health Impact: Police arrested a woman in Santo Domingo Norte accused in the stabbing death of her partner, who died while receiving medical assistance. Wellness Community Event: Cabarete Butterfly Effect wrapped its 18th edition with a record 190 participants from seven countries, blending sports, wellness, leadership, and a beach cleanup that collected 693 kg of waste. Regional Disaster Care: International field hospitals, including teams from the Dominican Republic, are supporting Venezuela after the June 24 earthquakes, providing trauma care, surgery, intensive care, and psychological support.

DR–US Public Health Push: Vice President Raquel Peña and Health Minister Víctor Atallah met U.S. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in Washington to expand cooperation on disease prevention, lab and surveillance capacity, digital health, emergency preparedness, mental health, and essential medicines supply chains, including work toward long-term sustainability under a 2026 MoU. Mental Health Access: The Dominican public health network (SNS) says it’s expanding mental health care with more crisis intervention beds (314 now, aiming for 500+ by end of 2026), stronger hospital mental health units, and new psychosocial centers under construction. Venezuela Earthquake Care: Dominican and other international medical teams are running field hospitals across Venezuela after the June 24 quakes, providing trauma care, surgery, intensive care, and psychological support. Food Safety Watch (Regional): Canada’s food safety agency says it’s not restricting U.S. fresh produce despite a cyclosporiasis outbreak, while monitoring closely and continuing routine testing. Local Wellness in Sports: The Viahr Foundation and Real Madrid Foundation partnered to promote mental health and emotional recovery tools to prevent burnout in high-performance and academic settings. Infrastructure for Health & Mobility: Santo Domingo’s sidewalk recovery initiative is reclaiming blocked public walkways and adding lighting, murals, trees, and landscaping to improve safe access near health facilities. Haiti Security Line: President Luis Abinader reiterated the DR will not deploy troops to Haiti’s UN-backed anti-gang force, focusing instead on logistical, medical, and humanitarian support.

DR–US Public Health Push: Vice President Raquel Peña and Health Minister Víctor Atallah met U.S. HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in Washington to expand cooperation on prevention, epidemiological surveillance, lab capacity, digital health, emergency preparedness, and chronic disease control under a 5-year MoU. Mental Health Capacity: The SNS says it’s scaling mental health care, with 314 crisis intervention beds now and a goal to exceed 500 specialized beds by end of 2026, plus new psychosocial centers in Higüey and Moca. Dementia Prevention Study: A LatAm-FINGERS trial published in The Lancet (including Dominican Republic sites) found structured lifestyle programs—exercise, diet, cardiovascular monitoring, mental training, and social activity—improved cognitive performance by up to 55% in older adults at risk. Regional Health Cooperation: COMISCA’s rotating presidency shifted to Belize, with Dominican Republic support for stronger regional health systems and access to essential medicines. Hydration & Heart Health: Dominican health specialists warn that waiting until you feel thirsty can worsen dehydration risks, especially for people with cardiovascular conditions.