Health February 3, 2025 | 7:00 pm

First oncology unit inaugurated in Monte Plata to transform cancer care in the region

Monte Plata, DR.- Vice President Raquel Peña, alongside the Director of the National Health Service (SNS), Mario Lama, inaugurated the first oncology unit of the National Oncology Network in Monte Plata this Sunday. The new facility, located at the Dr. Ángel Contreras Hospital, is part of the government’s efforts to expand access to specialized cancer care across the country.

During the inauguration, Vice President Peña emphasized the significance of the unit for the local community. “We know that families in this province were forced to travel long distances to seek care. These important facilities will ensure timely access to cancer diagnosis and treatment, bringing these vital services within reach of all Monte Plata residents,” she stated.

Peña, who also chairs the Health Cabinet, highlighted that this high-quality medical service is made possible thanks to the “invaluable work of doctors, nurses, and healthcare professionals who dedicate themselves to serving patients in centers like these.”

For his part, SNS Director Mario Lama explained that the opening of the Monte Plata oncology unit aligns with President Luis Abinader’s goals to decentralize healthcare services and bring specialized care closer to communities in need. “Today, we are delivering the first of eight units that will be made available nationwide as part of the Oncology Network. These units will alleviate pressure on the National Cancer Institute (INCART) and ensure that cancer patients receive timely, quality care without having to travel long distances,” Lama affirmed.

The SNS invested RD$9,212,469.25 in renovating spaces at the Dr. Ángel Contreras Hospital to establish the oncology unit. The facility includes a waiting room, two consultation offices (one general and one gynecological), a chemotherapy area with four cubicles, patient bathrooms, a procedure room, and a nursing station.

As part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen cancer care, similar units will be established in hospitals across the country, including Nuestra Señora de Regla in Peravia, José María Cabral y Báez in Santiago, Toribio Bencosme in Espaillat, Jaime Oliver Pino in San Pedro de Macorís, Padre Fantino in Montecristi, and Inmaculada Concepción in Sánchez Ramírez.

A new era for healthcare in Monte Plata

The inauguration of the oncology unit is part of a larger effort to strengthen healthcare infrastructure in Monte Plata. The province also saw the opening of the Caonabo Soriano Heliport, located on the hospital grounds. The heliport, built at a cost of over RD$17.4 million, is equipped with modern aeronautical lighting and facilities to support emergency medical response and other operations.

Additionally, the Peralvillo Primary Care Center was inaugurated during the same visit. The center, constructed with an investment of RD$42.1 million, will provide essential healthcare services to over 18,000 residents in the area. It features modern facilities for dentistry, emergency care, medical consultations, a pharmacy, and an imaging and diagnostic center.

 

 

 

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