MEDICAL TOURISM IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

White paper by Ace Salvador, Q2, 2023

The global disability market, a significantly untapped demographic, represents an abundant pool of both direct and indirect economic potentials that businesses worldwide are increasingly recognizing. As per the World Health Organization, approximately 15% of the global population, or over a billion people, live with some form of disability. This market is estimated to have a discretionary spending power of over $1 trillion, with wider influence reaching as much as $13 trillion when you account for their friends, families, and associates. Therefore, engaging with the disability market isn’t just a corporate social responsibility move or a regulatory compliance issue, but an astute business strategy with the promise of profitability and sustainable growth. Emerging industries like medical tourism are strategically positioned to harness the immense economic potentials of the global disability market. With a growing demand for high-quality healthcare services and specialized treatments from individuals with disabilities worldwide, medical tourism is driving significant growth and shaping the landscape of the industry. 

According to The Return on Disability Report the disability market is larger than China and growing – 1.85 billion people. Consumer insights experts also monitor and include the friends and family of disabled individuals, which adds another 3.4 billion potential consumers. Together, these groups have over $13 trillion in annual disposable income. 

An estimated 50 million people globally live with limited fine motor skills. 

Medical tourism in the Dominican Republic has been growing in recent years, thanks to several factors, such as the relatively lower cost of medical procedures, well-trained healthcare professionals, and modern facilities. The country is becoming an increasingly popular destination for medical tourists, particularly from the United States and Canada, who seek a wide range of treatments, including dental work, cosmetic surgery, orthopedic procedures, and weight loss surgery, among others. Some reasons behind the growth of medical tourism in the Dominican Republic include: 

 

1. Cost savings: Medical procedures in the Dominican Republic can be significantly more affordable than in the United States, Canada, or Europe, which makes it an attractive destination for those looking to save on healthcare costs. 

1. Proximity: The Dominican Republic is geographically close to the United States and Canada, which makes it a convenient destination for medical tourists from North America. 

1. Well-trained medical professionals: The Dominican Republic has a number of highly skilled and experienced medical professionals, many of whom have received training in the United States or Europe. 

1. Modern facilities: Some private hospitals and clinics in the Dominican Republic are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and meet international standards, offering high-quality care to patients. 

1. Attractive surroundings: The Dominican Republic is a popular tourist destination with beautiful beaches, warm weather, and a vibrant culture, which can make the recovery process more enjoyable for medical tourists. 

However, it’s essential for anyone considering medical tourism in the Dominican Republic to research and choose accredited facilities and qualified healthcare professionals. Patients should also be aware of potential risks, such as post-operative complications, and make sure they have a clear understanding of their treatment plan and the necessary aftercare. 

The Dominican Republic offers several luxurious vacation spots that cater to wealthy travelers, including those with disabilities. These upscale destinations often provide accessible facilities and services to accommodate the needs of guests with disabilities. Some of the top luxury vacation spots in the Dominican Republic include: 

 

1. Punta Cana: Known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, Punta Cana is a popular destination for luxury travelers. Many high-end resorts and hotels in the area, such as Club Med Punta Cana, and the Westin Punta Cana Resort and Club, offer wheelchair-accessible rooms and facilities. 

1. Cap Cana: This exclusive gated community, located near Punta Cana, offers
   luxury accommodations, world-class golf courses, and beautiful marinas. Hotels
   like the Secrets Cap Cana Resort, Eden Roc & Spa and the Sanctuary Cap Cana offer accessible facilities and services for disabled guests. 

1. Casa de Campo: This luxury resort in La Romana features upscale villas, a marina, golf courses, and various recreational activities. Casa de Campo has wheelchair-accessible accommodations and facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay for disabled guests. 

1. Samaná Peninsula: For a more relaxed and secluded luxury experience, the Samaná Peninsula offers upscale accommodations like the Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences and the Bahia Principe Luxury Samana. These resorts typically offer accessible rooms and facilities for disabled guests. 

In the Dominican Republic, 1,160,847 people live with some type of disability (PWD = People With Disability). The share of adults aged 15 and older with any functional difficulty stands at 14.5%. The prevalence of functional difficulties is higher for women (16.8%) than for men (12.1%). Functional difficulties are more prevalent among older age groups, at 5% for ages 15 to 29, 9% for ages 30 to 44, 25.6% for ages 45 to 64, and 46.6% for ages 65 and over. Across the five functional domains considered, difficulties with seeing (11.4%), and cognition (3.6%) are most common. 

At the household level, the prevalence of any functional difficulty is at 27.1%. The prevalence of functional difficulties is higher in rural areas compared to urban areas: 14.9% vs. 14.3% among adults and 28% vs. 26.8% among households in rural and urban areas, respectively. 

Housing Needs for the Disabled 

 

1. Wheelchair accessibility: Housing should be equipped with ramps, elevators, or lifts to ensure easy access for wheelchair users. Doorways and hallways should be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs, and flooring should be smooth and even. 

1. Accessible bathrooms: Bathrooms should be designed with the needs of disabled individuals in mind. This includes features like grab bars, roll-in showers or walk-in tubs, and sufficient space for wheelchair maneuverability. 

1. Accessible kitchens: Kitchens should be designed to facilitate easy access and use for disabled individuals. Features may include lowered countertops and cabinets, accessible appliances, and ample space for wheelchair users to move around. 

1. Adapted living spaces: Living spaces should be designed with the needs of disabled individuals in mind, with ample space for wheelchair users to navigate and furniture arranged to facilitate easy movement. 

1. Safety features: Housing for disabled people should include safety features such as non- slip flooring, well-lit areas, and handrails in critical areas to reduce the risk of accidents. 

1. Proximity to services and facilities: Ideally, housing for disabled individuals should be located close to necessary services and facilities, such as medical centers, pharmacies, grocery stores, and public transportation. 

1. Customizability: Housing options should be adaptable to the specific needs of disabled individuals, allowing for modifications and adjustments as required. 

1. Community support and accessibility: It’s essential to consider the accessibility of the surrounding community, including sidewalks, public transportation, and public spaces. 

When comparing the Dominican Republic to other Caribbean countries in terms of medical tourism, some key factors to consider include: 

 

1. Secrecy: The country adheres to the stringent privacy standards set by HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996). This commitment to secrecy ensures that patients’ confidential medical data remains secure and confidential throughout their treatment, providing peace of mind to those seeking medical services in the Dominican Republic.

1. Range of medical services: The Dominican Republic offers a wide range of medical procedures, such as dental work, cosmetic surgery, and orthopedic treatments, which may be more comprehensive than some other Caribbean countries and may not be offered or covered by insurance in the US. 

1. Cost: The Dominican Republic generally offers lower-cost medical procedures compared to the United States and other countries. However, costs may vary across the Caribbean region, and it’s essential to compare the prices of specific treatments among different destinations. 

1. Quality of healthcare: The Dominican Republic has several private hospitals and clinics with modern facilities and well-trained medical professionals. However, the quality of healthcare can vary across the region, and it’s crucial to research the specific facility and medical staff before choosing a destination for medical tourism. 

1. Accessibility and proximity: The Dominican Republic is geographically close to the United States and Canada, which makes it a convenient destination for medical tourists from North America. However, other Caribbean countries may also offer easy access and travel options

1. Tourism infrastructure: The Dominican Republic is a popular tourist destination with well-developed tourism infrastructure, including accommodations, attractions, and transportation. This may make it a more appealing destination for medical tourists who wish to combine their treatment with leisure activities. 

The Dominican Republic offers several luxury accommodations and facilities that cater to wealthy travelers, including those with disabilities. These upscale establishments typically provide accessible facilities and services to accommodate the needs of disabled guests. Some of the top luxury options in the Dominican Republic with wheelchair-accessible facilities include: 

 

1. Tortuga Bay Hotel (Punta Cana): This luxurious boutique hotel, designed by Oscar de la Renta, is located within the exclusive Punta Cana Resort & Club. It offers wheelchair- accessible rooms, ramps, and other necessary amenities. 

1. Eden Roc at Cap Cana (Punta Cana): This high-end resort in the exclusive Cap Cana community offers luxurious suites and villas, some of which are wheelchair accessible. The resort also provides facilities like ramps and elevators for the convenience of disabled guests. 

1. Paradisus Palma Real (Punta Cana): This all-inclusive luxury resort offers wheelchair- accessible rooms and facilities, ensuring a comfortable stay for disabled guests. The resort also features various activities, restaurants, and entertainment options that cater to different preferences. 

1. Casa de Campo Resort & Villas (La Romana): This luxury resort features upscale villas, a marina, golf courses, and a variety of recreational activities. Casa de Campo provides wheelchair-accessible accommodations and facilities for disabled guests. 

1. Sublime Samana Hotel & Residences (Samaná Peninsula): Located on the Samaná Peninsula, this luxury hotel offers a more relaxed and secluded experience. The hotel provides accessible rooms and facilities for disabled guests, ensuring their comfort during their stay. 

1. Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa (Cap Cana): This adults-only, all-inclusive luxury resort offers wheelchair-accessible facilities and services for disabled guests. The resort provides a wide range of amenities, dining options, and activities for visitors to enjoy. 

While the Dominican Republic may not have the same level of resources for disabled individuals as some more developed countries, there are organizations and facilities that provide care, support, and services to people with disabilities. Some of these facilities and programs include: 

 

1. National Council for Disability (CONADIS): This government organization aims to promote the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities in the Dominican Republic. CONADIS works to create policies, programs, and strategies to improve the quality of life for disabled individuals and their families. 

1. Dominican Association for Rehabilitation (ADR): ADR is a non-profit organization dedicated to the rehabilitation and social integration of people with disabilities. The organization operates several rehabilitation centers across the country, providing services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and special education. 

1. Fundación St. Jude: This non-profit organization focuses on providing educational and rehabilitation services for children with disabilities, primarily those with cerebral palsy. The 

foundation operates a school and rehabilitation center in Santo Domingo, offering physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other support services. 

 

4. Nido Para Ángeles: Nido Para Ángeles is a non-profit organization that supports children with cerebral palsy in the Dominican Republic. The organization provides therapy, education, and medical assistance to children in need, aiming to improve their quality of life and promote their inclusion in society. 

4. Mustard Seed Communities: This international non-profit organization operates a facility called Hogar Immanuel in the Dominican Republic, which provides residential care for children and adults with disabilities. The organization offers a range of services, including therapy, medical care, and vocational training. 

4. Special Olympics Dominican Republic: This organization offers sports training and competition opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The Special Olympics aims to foster physical fitness, courage, and friendship among its participants while breaking down barriers and promoting inclusion. 

In the Dominican Republic, there are several insurance companies that offer policies and services that cater to the needs of affluent PWDs, including those with disabilities. While these insurance providers may not specifically target wealthy disabled clients, they usually offer comprehensive and customizable coverage options that can be tailored to suit individual requirements. 

Some of the top insurance companies in the Dominican Republic include: 

 

1. Seguros Universal: As one of the largest insurance companies in the Dominican Republic, Seguros Universal offers a wide range of insurance products, including health, life, and property insurance. They provide comprehensive coverage options and personalized service to cater to the needs of their clients. 

1. ARS Humano: ARS Humano is a leading health insurance provider in the Dominican Republic, offering various health plans with extensive coverage and benefits. They provide customizable plans that can be tailored to suit the individual needs of their clients, including those with disabilities. 

1. Seguros Banreservas: Owned by the Banco de Reservas, Seguros Banreservas offers a range of insurance products, including health, life, and property insurance. They provide comprehensive coverage and personalized service to cater to the diverse needs of their clients. 

1. ARS Palic: ARS Palic is a health insurance provider in the Dominican Republic that offers a variety of health plans with extensive coverage options. Their plans can be customized to suit individual needs, ensuring that clients, including those with disabilities, receive appropriate coverage and care. 

1. Seguros Sura: Seguros Sura is a multinational insurance company with a presence in the Dominican Republic. They offer a range of insurance products, including health, life, and property insurance, and provide comprehensive coverage and personalized service to their clients. 

Foreign health insurance companies often offer international health insurance plans that can cover medical expenses incurred in the Dominican Republic. While the specific companies and coverage may vary depending on your country of origin, some of the more common and reputable international health insurance providers that offer coverage in the Dominican Republic include: 

 

1. Cigna Global: Cigna is a well-known international insurance provider that offers comprehensive health insurance plans with worldwide coverage, including the Dominican Republic.

1. Aetna International: Aetna is another global insurance company that offers a range of international health insurance plans for expatriates and travelers, covering medical expenses in the Dominican Republic and other countries. 

1. Allianz Care: Allianz Care provides international health insurance solutions for individuals, families, and businesses, with coverage available in the Dominican Republic. 

1. Bupa Global: Bupa Global is an international health insurance provider offering plans that cover medical treatment in the Dominican Republic and other destinations around the world. 

1. GeoBlue: GeoBlue offers international health insurance plans for travelers and expatriates, with coverage for medical expenses incurred in the Dominican Republic. 

1. AXA Global Healthcare: AXA offers international health insurance plans that provide coverage for medical expenses in the Dominican Republic and other countries worldwide. 

Several outpatient clinics in the Dominican Republic cater to the needs of wealthy PWDs seeking high-quality medical services. These clinics often provide personalized care, state-of- the-art facilities, and a range of specialized treatments. Some of the best outpatient clinics for wealthy individuals in the Dominican Republic include: 

 

1. Centro Médico Punta Cana: Located in the popular tourist destination of Punta Cana, this medical center offers a wide range of services, including general medicine, specialist consultations, and diagnostic services. It is equipped with modern facilities and has a team of experienced medical professionals. 

1. Grupo Médico Bournigal: This medical group has locations in Puerto Plata and Sosúa, providing various outpatient services, including diagnostic imaging, laboratory services, and specialist consultations. They have a team of skilled physicians and healthcare providers. 

1. Centro Médico Moderno: Located in Santo Domingo, Centro Médico Moderno is a well- established clinic offering a range of outpatient services, including specialist consultations, diagnostic services, and preventive medicine. 

1. Centro Médico Cibao: With locations in Santiago, Centro Médico Cibao is a reputable clinic providing various medical services, including outpatient consultations, diagnostic imaging, and laboratory services. 

1. Instituto Espaillat Cabral: This clinic, located in Santo Domingo, specializes in ophthalmology and offers a wide range of eye care services, including consultations, diagnostics, and treatments for various eye conditions. 

1. Clinica Abreu: Founded in 1930 and located in Santo Domingo, Clinica Abreu is a reputable clinic offering a variety of outpatient services, including general medicine, specialist consultations, diagnostic imaging, and laboratory services. 

Competition: Other Caribbean and Latin American countries have also developed their medical tourism sectors, catering to international patients seeking high-quality healthcare at more affordable prices. Some of the Caribbean countries that have been active in promoting medical tourism include: 

 

1. Panama: Panama’s medical tourism industry has been gaining momentum due to its modern healthcare infrastructure and affordable healthcare services. The country offers a wide range of medical treatments, including cosmetic surgeries, dental procedures, and specialized medical care. Many international patients are drawn to Panama for its cost-effective healthcare options, experienced medical professionals, and convenient geographical location, making it a top choice for those seeking quality medical services in a welcoming and beautiful setting.

1. Colombia: Colombia has positioned itself as a prominent player in the medical tourism sector, known for its skilled healthcare professionals and world-class medical facilities. The country offers a diverse range of medical services, from cosmetic surgeries to complex medical procedures. Colombia’s growing reputation in the industry is driven by its commitment to high-quality healthcare, competitive prices, and a wide array of natural attractions that provide an ideal backdrop for medical tourists seeking both medical treatment and relaxation.

1. Cuba: Known for its strong healthcare system, Cuba has been a destination for medical tourists seeking specialized treatments, such as cancer therapies, eye surgeries, and orthopedic procedures. The country’s well-trained medical professionals and low-cost treatments have attracted patients from around the world. 

1. Jamaica: Jamaica has been investing in its healthcare infrastructure to attract medical tourists. The country offers various medical services, including dental work, cosmetic surgery, and orthopedic procedures. Jamaica’s proximity to the United States, its English- speaking population, and its appealing natural attractions make it an attractive destination for medical tourists. 

1. Barbados: Barbados has a reputation for high-quality healthcare and has been developing its medical tourism sector. The country offers a range of medical services, including fertility treatments, dental care, and cosmetic procedures. Barbados’ stable economy, strong healthcare infrastructure, and appealing climate make it an attractive destination for medical tourists. 

1. Bahamas: The Bahamas offers a range of medical services, including orthopedic, cardiovascular, and cosmetic procedures. The country has several Joint Commission International (JCI) accredited hospitals and clinics, which indicates adherence to high standards of patient care. 

Vista Verde Eco-Studio Holding Limited (VVS) has begun to design and develop a full service luxurious vacation resort in the Dominican Republic anchored by a state of the art medical building with a rehabilitation, recreation center, sport complex, retail, eating and drinking establishments, with the understanding that “accessibility and accommodations” will help with PWD. 

VVS luxurious vacation resort shall offer:
– one stop shop / all located on one campus offering a unique customer experience that maximizes healthy healing, quality services in an ultra luxury setting. 

 

• Smart sidewalks and street fixtures equipped with geo-sensitive devices that assist persons with vision impairments navigate in the community, 

• Eating and drinking establishments equipped with wide entrances, walk spaces and where dining tables are suitable for wheelchairs and knee scooters, 

• Retail establishments that offer accessible packaging of products, counter tops and displays 

• Clothing Boutiques adorned with clothing of materials for sensitive skin types and conditions, styled for persons with prosthetics and other disabilities, and 

• Wellness Spas and Beauty Salon furnished with fixtures and applicators that deliver a full experience under an ambiance that affords confidence, assertiveness and full satisfaction. 

• Anti-bacteria coatings on floors and walls 

The VVS Medical Tourism luxurious vacation resort aims to offer more than isolated rooms or villas. VVS offers a community centered around a world class medical facility, supported with a special recreation center, which includes a studio class sound stage for live and recorded performances. The community will have spas, physical therapy lounges, shopping village and a recreation center with a community swimming pool equipped for the needs of PWD. 

It is critical that disability is not viewed in isolation from the “norm” but is levered as a part of the broader consumer and talent marketplace. The amplified functionality that PWD manage as their routine experience has proven to be a valuable tool for product and experience design. True inclusion transcends superficial accommodations and instead encompasses the creation of genuine accessibility. A way to accomplish this is through Universal design, which entails designing environments that maximize usability for everyone, regardless of age, ability, or statues. By integrating PWD to a space and alleviating their burdens, not only do we cater to their specific needs, but we also extend our reach to encompass their non-disabled counterparts. These developments grow revenue by attracting the $13 trillion in disposable income attached to PWD. 

CONCLUSION: Medical Tourism in the Dominican Republic growth today is at the starting line of greater success. VVS Medical Tourism luxury vacation resort is the 21st century innovation that will offer a fully inclusive “smart” community designed and built with the needs of PWD at its centerpiece, anchored by a state of the art medical facility, rehabilitation center, recreation center and entertainment center, with nearby shopping village. The VVS community makes “economic sense” and serves a sector of humanity comprised of about 1.85 billion people. 

REFERENCES 2020 Annual Report – The Global Economics of Disability, Disability Inclusion Means Action, Disability Economy Part I,
Mindset Matters article – How the Tribe of Accessibility is Fundamental to Scaling the Disability Economy Mindset Matters article – Defining the
Mindset Matters article – A New Year, The Latest Trends, and the Growth of the Disability Economy 

(https://www.magazine.medicaltourism.com/article/jamaica-seeks-to-develop-as-a-medical-tourism- destination, https://www.cubaheal.com/cuba-as-a-medical-treatment-destination/)