In Santo Domingo, the General Directorate of Information and Defense of Social Security Affiliates (DIDA) has issued a firm statement reaffirming that healthcare is a legal obligation that cannot be suspended due to economic conflicts between private clinics and their clients. This declaration, addressed to the National Association of Private Clinics (Andeclip), emphasizes that all affiliates of the Dominican Social Security System (SDSS) have the guaranteed right to receive uninterrupted medical assistance, regardless of any financial disputes that may exist in the private sector.
Current regulations, specifically legal provisions 156-08, 165-09, and 175-09, establish that affiliation with the SDSS is mandatory for all Dominicans and legal residents, and that health coverage includes essential benefits such as medical care, hospitalization, and medications. DIDA considers any attempt to withhold medical services for payment reasons to be a direct violation of these constitutional rights. Therefore, healthcare is a legal obligation that must be respected by all entities within the system, regardless of external circumstances.
Active surveillance in clinics and hospitals
To ensure compliance with this rule, DIDA has announced that it will maintain active surveillance in all private hospitals and clinics. This measure focuses on detecting any practice that may limit affiliates’ access to healthcare. The entity has made it clear that healthcare is an inescapable legal obligation, and that any suspension of services will be immediately investigated and sanctioned if it is confirmed to be based on economic reasons rather than the unavailability of medical resources.
Furthermore, DIDA has reiterated that no health center may withhold a newborn for payment reasons, a prohibited practice that violates the fundamental rights of the family. This principle extends to all health services, where healthcare is a legal obligation that admits no exceptions. Surveillance will be carried out systematically, with the aim of protecting citizens and legal residents from any restriction in their access to social security.
Importance of universal coverage
The social security system in the Dominican Republic seeks universal health coverage for all citizens, including in-kind benefits such as prenatal care, emergencies, and scheduled consultations. DIDA emphasizes that 100% coverage for covered illnesses is a right that cannot be denied. In this context, healthcare is a legal obligation that must be fulfilled by all involved institutions, ensuring that no affiliate is left without medical assistance due to financial disputes.
DIDA has also highlighted that thousands of people received legal assistance in 2025, demonstrating the entity’s commitment to defending the rights of affiliates. DIDA’s mission is to guide, assist, and defend Dominicans on social security issues, ensuring that healthcare is a legal obligation and that any attempt to suspend it will be met with firm resolve. The agency will continue its surveillance and protection work, guaranteeing that access to health is an accessible right for all.
Conclusion: DIDA maintains its firm stance
DIDA has confirmed once again that healthcare is a legal obligation that cannot be negotiated or suspended due to economic conflicts. This stance reinforces the government’s commitment to protecting the rights of SDSS affiliates, ensuring that health is a guaranteed right for all citizens and legal residents of the Dominican Republic.
