Santo Domingo. – The General Directorate of Immigration (DGM) will begin implementing a new immigration verification protocol in 33 strategic public hospitals this Monday, April 21, as part of the measures announced by President Luis Abinader.
This measure aims to streamline care for foreign patients, ensure compliance with current immigration regulations, and contribute to the sustainability of the national hospital system. Inspectors and immigration agents will verify that patients have valid identification, a work permit, proof of residence in the country, and that they have covered the cost of the services received. If not, they will receive medical care and, once recovered, will be repatriated in accordance with the Executive Branch’s provisions.
The Director General of Migration, Vice Admiral Luis Rafael Lee Ballester, reaffirmed that this policy will be implemented in accordance with due process and respect for human rights, especially in cases of vulnerability, such as minors, pregnant women, and patients in critical condition.
Prior to its implementation, the DGM, in coordination with the National Health Service (NHS), held a workshop to disseminate the protocol with healthcare, administrative, and security personnel at hospitals. This workshop defined the technical criteria and trained the teams involved.
This initiative strengthens the DGM’s institutional commitment to immigration regulation, operational efficiency, and the preservation of public resources.
Communications Directorate