Government updates prescription rules to improve access to medicines
Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Government has approved changes to the regulations governing the prescription and dispensing of outpatient medications under the Dominican Social Security System (SDSS) through Decree 286-26. The measure aims to simplify access to medications by allowing prescriptions issued by doctors who are not part of a patient’s contracted Health Risk Administrator (ARS) network to remain valid for coverage purposes.
According to the National Social Security Council (CNSS), the reform will help patients continue treatments without interruption, strengthen freedom of choice in healthcare providers, and reduce barriers that previously delayed access to prescribed medications. CNSS President Aura Celeste Fernández Rodríguez described the change as a significant step toward improving access to healthcare services and updating the Family Health Insurance system.
The revised regulations also establish stricter requirements for medical prescriptions, requiring greater identification, diagnosis, and documentation standards to improve medication traceability. Pharmacies will be responsible for verifying that prescriptions comply with regulatory requirements before dispensing certain drugs, particularly those subject to special controls.
In addition, the reform promotes the gradual implementation of electronic prescription systems to reduce errors, improve communication between healthcare providers and pharmacies, and modernize medication management. The rules also regulate partial dispensing of medications when appropriate, helping ensure efficient use of treatments and resources.
Authorities said the new framework strengthens oversight of pharmaceutical establishments, enhances medication safety, and helps combat the sale of prescription drugs without proper authorization. The government views the reform as a step toward a safer, more efficient healthcare system that balances access to medications with stronger public health safeguards.
