Health October 24, 2024 - 1:27 pm

CMD proposes law to decriminalize unintentional medical acts

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Medical Association (CMD) submitted a draft law to the National Congress aimed at decriminalizing medical acts where there is no intent to cause harm. The proposal, presented by Deputy Dr. Monserrat Santana to the Chamber of Deputies, emphasizes that the doctor-patient relationship is based on good faith, with medical procedures focused on patient well-being, and should not be criminalized without proof of malicious intent.

The CMD bases its proposal on several constitutional principles:

• The right to health as a fundamental right in the Dominican Constitution.
• Protection of human dignity as a core function of the state.
• Presumption of good faith in medical procedures aimed at preserving life and health.
• A need for clear legal criteria to ensure health professionals are penalized only when malicious intent is proven.

The CMD believes this reform is crucial for providing legal security to doctors while upholding patients’ fundamental rights. The organization hopes Congress will favorably consider the proposal, as it would reduce unjustified legal risks for medical professionals and strengthen the Dominican health system. The project seeks a balance between responsible medical practice and legal protection for both doctors and patients.