Dominican Republic
HEALTH SNAPSHOT
The Dominican Republic faces significant health challenges, particularly within the Haitian migrant and refugee communities. These populations often experience systemic discrimination, which hinders their access to healthcare services. Factors such as limited economic opportunities, language barriers, and inadequate legal protections exacerbate health disparities.
The Haitian community in the Dominican Republic grapples with high rates of malnutrition, poor maternal and child health, and inadequate sanitation. Infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, dengue, and HIV/AIDS are prevalent, alongside rising rates of chronic diseases, including hypertension and diabetes. Access to basic healthcare services is limited. The country also faces challenges with overcrowded public health systems and a shortage of healthcare workers in rural and underserved areas, further impacting the quality of care available to marginalized groups.
HOW WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Through our partnership with local nonprofit organization, called the Dominican Starfish Foundation, we are working to help strengthen and build community capacity to achieve optimal health and wellbeing.
We collaborate with our partner by provide ongoing support and assistance, working hand-in-hand to develop and implement sustainable solutions, including education/training opportunities for providers on ultrasound use, diabetes education, and primary/secondary school teacher development. We also organize regular service trips to the Dominican Republic that focus on medicine and public health.
Our next trip to the Dominican Republic is scheduled for February 8-15, 2026. If you are interested in joining us, please contact Savannnah Daines or complete our trip registration form.
VIEW PAST TRIPS
Trip Dates: February 6-15, 2025
On our inaugural trip to the Dominican Republic, we led a 16-person team of volunteers to serve in the communities of Baraguana, Lagrua, and Munoz, working with the Dominican Starfish Foundation. We saw over 450 patients in clinic, led ultrasound training, provided diabetes and feminine hygiene education, assisted in a school, and helped with a food security project. This trip culminated in an ongoing effort to support communities in the Dominican Republic and Haiti through the Friends of Health Medical Project.