Dominican Republic Sees Major Drop in Maternal and Infant Mortality

The Dominican Republic's public health system is showing meaningful progress in one of its most sensitive indicators: the survival of mothers and newborns. According to Dominican Today, the National Health Service (SNS) has reported substantial decreases in maternal, infant, and neonatal deaths across public hospitals during the first quarter of the year, compared with the same three-month window in 2025.

The Numbers Behind the Improvement

Between January and March, public facilities recorded 17 maternal deaths, 311 infant deaths, and 279 neonatal deaths. Those figures translate to year-over-year reductions of roughly 57.5 percent for maternal mortality, 21 percent for infant mortality, and 18 percent for neonatal mortality. Health authorities credit reinforced hospital care and expanded prevention programs for the shift, as reported by Dominican Today.

Why This Matters for Travelers and Expats

For visitors, digital nomads, and long-term residents, the state of a country's healthcare system is more than a statistic — it can influence decisions about where to give birth, how to plan a family relocation, or whether to rely on public facilities in an emergency. Improvements in maternal and neonatal care generally reflect better staffing, equipment, and clinical protocols, which tend to benefit all patients using the network.

That said, most tourists in the Dominican Republic continue to use private hospitals and clinics, particularly in Santo Domingo, Santiago, Punta Cana, and other resort areas. These facilities typically offer English-speaking staff, shorter wait times, and direct billing arrangements with international insurers.

Practical Tips

• Travel insurance is essential. Even short trips should be covered by a policy that includes medical evacuation.
• Know the nearest hospital. Ask your hotel or rental host for the closest private clinic before you need it.
• Carry documentation. Keep your passport, insurance card, and a list of medications accessible.
• Emergency number: Dial 911 nationwide for police, fire, and medical response.

While these statistics come from the public system, they signal a broader push to modernize Dominican healthcare — a positive sign for anyone spending time in the country.