Dominican Republic: Doctors to hold 48-hour strike beginning Oct. 6; emergency medical services unaffected

Event

Doctors associated with the Dominican Medical College (Colegio Medico Dominicano) and the Specialized Medical Societies (Sociedades Medicas Especializadas) unions will hold a 48-hour strike in the Dominican Republic beginning Oct. 6. The strike will affect public and private facilities, as doctors will refrain from having consultations and performing elective surgeries. However, union leadership has maintained that doctors will continue to treat both healthcare emergencies and patients considered to be in "critical states" during the work stoppage. Doctors have adhered to the measure in an effort to press their case for salary raises, a restoration of certain benefits related to work productivity, and the ending of layoffs from the Ministry of Public Health.

Related demonstrations are possible; however, union leaders have not announced any planned protests. Heightened security and localized traffic disruptions are likely around any demonstrations.

Advice

Confirm medical appointments scheduled for Oct. 6-7 as a precaution. Plan for medical service delays. If possible, contact healthcare facilities in advance for information about wait times, which could vary among hospitals and clinics. Avoid any protests as a precaution. Plan for possible localized transport disruptions nearby any protest sites.