Santo Domingo – The Dominican Republic is rapidly gaining recognition as a top health tourism destination in the Caribbean, fueled by rising international demand for affordable and high-quality medical care. The country is attracting a growing number of patients from abroad—particularly Dominican expatriates in the United States and underinsured Americans—seeking advanced treatments at significantly lower costs than those found in traditional healthcare markets.
Private healthcare providers across the country offer a wide range of services, from preventive check-ups and dental procedures to minimally invasive surgeries and fertility treatments. Many international patients are drawn by the Dominican Republic’s competitive pricing, short wait times, and high clinical standards.
The demand is especially pronounced among the more than two million Dominicans living in the U.S., as well as the broader population of Americans with insufficient health coverage. According to The Commonwealth Fund, approximately 30 million Americans are uninsured, while another 45 million are underinsured—many of whom are now looking abroad for quality medical alternatives.
This growing medical demand presents a strategic opportunity for the Dominican Republic’s healthcare sector. Providers are expanding their services to better accommodate international patients, incorporating telemedicine consultations and remote post-operative care. Stronger partnerships with international insurers and medical tourism facilitators are also helping to boost the industry’s profile while generating foreign currency and skilled employment within the country.
The Dominican Association of Health Tourism (ADTS) plays a key role in maintaining quality and consistency across the sector. Its member institutions follow rigorous international standards, employ bilingual staff, and operate modern facilities certified for global healthcare delivery.
Innovative initiatives are further driving market expansion. The Larimar Plan, introduced by the National Health Insurance agency (SENASA), allows Dominicans living abroad to access insured medical services within the country. At the same time, “health remittance” programs—where families prepay for loved ones’ medical care—are helping to make treatments more accessible and affordable.
With its strong air connectivity, investor-friendly climate, and globally recognized hospitality, the Dominican Republic is well-positioned to cement its role as a leading hub for health and wellness tourism. As the global healthcare landscape shifts, the country is offering an increasingly attractive solution for patients seeking safe, cost-effective, and high-quality care abroad.
