During the 2024–2025 biennium, the Dominican Republic made progress in consolidating public policies to improve the care of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) through several actions implemented with technical cooperation from PAHO, including the launch of two key documents aligned with regional plans: the Strategic Plan for the Prevention and Control of NCDs 2025–2030 and the Strategic Plan for Mental Health 2025–2030.

In addition, the clinical practice guideline for the management of cervical cancer was updated, incorporating HPV testing as the basis for early detection and its integration into the first level of care.

Likewise, a proposal to update Mental Health Law No. 12-06 was developed using a human rights- and community-based approach, through interinstitutional collaboration among the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, the National Health Service, PAHO, specialized professional associations, and civil society.

Similarly, the intersectoral approach to addressing the determinants of NCDs was strengthened through the implementation of population-based surveys to improve surveillance of risk factors among the school-age population. The Latin America 100% Smoke-Free initiative was adopted in coordination with the Ministry of Education, academia, and civil society.
PAHO contributed by facilitating implementation of the Global School-based Student Health Survey and the Global Youth Tobacco Survey, as well as adoption of the global ANIMA model within care protocols for survivors of violence. In addition, PAHO provided technical advice for the development of national plans on disability and road safety.

Lastly, the country consolidated implementation of the HEARTS strategy in 87% of primary health care facilities, for which it received the 2025 HEARTS Award from the World Hypertension League. Technical cooperation from PAHO was key to these achievements, providing guidance for the preparation of the annual HEARTS Maturity Index reports, promoting intersectoral action and social participation, and fostering the engagement of patient associations, professional societies, and academia.
In addition, the country promoted the consolidation of the CureAll initiative, strengthening timely diagnosis and access to care for childhood cancer, which resulted in the country achieving the Alignment 2025 Award.

Photo caption: A physician in Monseñor Nouel province providing patient follow-up in accordance with the HEARTS strategy, August 2024.

Credit: PAHO/Kharla Pimentel.