Dominican Medical Association demands respect for labor agreements and proposes an urgent hospital security plan

The Dominican Medical Association (CMD) reiterated this Tuesday its commitment to the defense of the medical profession and demanded compliance with the labor agreements reached, while calling on the authorities to implement a national hospital security plan that protects doctors, patients, and other healthcare personnel.

In a statement dated August 11, 2026, the National Board of Directors of the CMD indicated that it is monitoring full compliance with the agreement regarding the 20-hour work week, with the purpose of ensuring transparency and job opportunities for the country’s physicians.

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Regarding the new Penal Code, which entered into force on August 3rd, the guild reported that it remains in permanent session to monitor the provisions that impact the practice of medicine.

The CMD recalled that, prior to the enactment of the legislation, it held meetings with the Health Commission of the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies, before which it presented observations on various articles that, according to the guild, could infringe upon medical practice.

The organization viewed the modification of articles 8, 104, and 354 as positive, and highlighted the commitment publicly assumed by President Luis Abinader to create an advisory commission to evaluate the remaining articles.

The guild warned that it is working to achieve a harmonization of regulatory texts that allows for avoiding the practice of “defensive medicine,” which, in its view, could end up weakening the relationship between doctors and patients. The CMD had already brought challenges before the Constitutional Court against provisions of the new Penal Code, considering that they create legal uncertainty for health professionals.

They demand security in hospitals

One of the main demands raised by the Medical Association is the urgent implementation of a national hospital security plan in all health facilities.

The CMD maintained that this initiative must be oriented towards safeguarding the life and integrity of citizens, doctors, and all healthcare personnel, considering hospital security as a fundamental element for the development of the Dominican health system.

Finally, the guild reported that it is awaiting a meeting with President Luis Abinader to address the pending issues related to the new Penal Code and to formally present a proposal for a structured hospital security plan.

The statement is signed by the president of the CMD, Dr. Luis Alberto Peña Núñez, and the general secretary, Dr. Miosotte Alt. Lazala M.

In addition, the Medical Association invited its members to participate in Doctors’ Week, which will take place from August 16 to 23, with activities that include, for the first time, a golf tournament for doctors, a fair with attractive rates, and continuing education sessions on the Penal Code.