Santo Domingo.- The Permanent Health Commission of the Chamber of Deputies traveled to the Nuestra Señora de La Altagracia University Maternity Hospital to oversee and prepare a report on the death of 17 newborn babies that occurred at that health center during the month of August.
The president of the commission, Diómedes Rojas, explained that the purpose of the visit is to confirm and receive precise information regarding the cases, with the goal of preparing a detailed report that will allow for the clarification of the circumstances of the deaths.
For his part, the hospital director, Henry Amín Mesa, reported that, of the 17 neonatal deaths recorded, only three were associated with infections in extremely premature infants. The other cases included two gastroschisis-type congenital malformations, one premature infant who underwent reoperation, one newborn with a single ventricle—a pathology incompatible with life—and eleven deaths unrelated to infections.
Henry Amín assured that the hospital remains a reliable center, with quality services and committed staff.
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In addition, he stressed that hygiene, cleaning, and disinfection measures have been intensified, as well as hand washing, to prevent outbreaks and ensure patient safety.
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Also, the neonatal coordinator of the National Health Service (SNS), Dr. Taína Malena, highlighted that the Dominican Republic is the only country in Latin America with unit-dose controls and tracking systems that ensure each hospitalized patient receives the exact amount of medication at the right time.
Then, the legislators took a tour of the facilities to observe closely the procedures and the care that the children receive at the center.
This meeting seeks to reinforce transparency and trust in the health system, while working on measures to prevent further deaths and ensure quality care for newborns.
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The meeting took place in the National District, with the participation of deputies Ramón Bueno, Anny Mambrú, Millyz Martínez, Juan Bolívar, Gregoria Monserrat, Damaris Vásquez, and Lidia Pérez. Likewise, several doctors from different areas of the health center were present.
