DR highlights advances in HIV and disease control

Santo Domingo. The country reached and surpassed the international 95–95–95 target for HIV, with more than 79,800 people diagnosed, 56,000 on treatment, and 49,000 with viral suppression, for which it was recognized as a “Champion Country.” In tuberculosis, 3,771 cases were diagnosed and treated, with emphasis on early detection in vulnerable populations, the timely supply of medications, and social support to ensure treatment continuity. Similarly, significant progress was recorded towards the elimination of malaria, with interventions in more than one million households, reduction of active outbreaks and regional recognition by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). Dominican Republic obtained a result of 82% in the first measurement of the Performance Framework of the Regional Initiative for the Elimination of Malaria (IREM), according to the official communication sent by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) to the Ministry of Public Health. The country met eight of the ten indicators established for this phase, according to the external verification carried out under the supervision of the Bank, with the participation of PAHO.

This result placed the Dominican Republic in first place in performance, along with Belize, among the countries that make up the Initiative. As a result of this progress, the country is eligible to receive the incentive corresponding to 40% of the Performance Tranche, equivalent to two hundred and nineteen thousand United States dollars (US$219,000.00).

“More Health and Wellbeing”

The “More Health and Wellness” conferences were held in prioritized provinces, with the participation of the Provincial Directorates and Health Areas, resulting in more than 46 thousand people impacted. Through these actions, some 25,000 people, including children, adolescents, pregnant women, and older adults, participated in educational activities on healthy lifestyles in the various prioritized provinces, and 46,089 people in 10 provinces were impacted. These workshops helped reduce access barriers and strengthen community health education, with an investment of RD$18,002,700.00.

Nationally, 2,551 pediatric patients were included in the monoclonal antibody (Palivizumab) administration program to prevent complications from Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), achieving a 65% adherence rate and contributing to a reduction in hospitalizations and infant mortality, with an investment of US$2,439,300.98.

In addition, 7,930 active patients received specialized medications (High Cost) with guaranteed continuous treatment, through an investment of RD$7,313,861,754.00.

When assessing these results, the Minister of Health pointed out that “we are seeing concrete results: more health, fewer deaths and more hope for our people”, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to a more accessible, modern and efficient health system.