Private clinics announce service suspension for Primera ARS and ARS Futuro patients

Santo Domingo.- The National Association of Private Clinics and Hospitals (ANDECLIP) announced it will indefinitely suspend certain medical services for members of Primera ARS and ARS Futuro beginning July 14, citing inadequate reimbursement rates from the health insurers.

ANDECLIP President Rafael Mena said the decision was backed by representatives of about 130 private health centers after months of unsuccessful negotiations over tariff adjustments. He argued that current payments no longer cover rising operating costs, including utilities, medical supplies, equipment maintenance, and salaries.

The association stressed that emergency services and intensive care units will continue operating, but warned that scheduled consultations, diagnostic tests, elective procedures, and other non-emergency services could be affected. Patients are advised to confirm appointments with their clinic and insurer before seeking care.

Meanwhile, the General Directorate of Information and Defense of Social Security Affiliates (DIDA) urged that the dispute be resolved without disrupting patient care, warning it could pursue legal action if members’ right to health is compromised. At the time of the announcement, neither Primera ARS, ARS Futuro, nor SISALRIL had publicly responded to ANDECLIP’s decision.