The Dominican Republic has the second highest rate of neonatal mortality in Latin America and the Caribbean, despite having high coverage of institutional births. The Ministry of Public Health (MOH) of the Dominican Republic named reduction of maternal and neonatal mortality as a top priority for the national health agenda.

Project HOPE is working to reduce neonatal mortality at two of the largest maternity hospitals in the country by improving the capacity of health care professionals and procuring essential equipment for neonatal survival. We also support the Ministry of Health along with other national and local partners, to establish a national post-graduate education program for nurses on obstetrics and neonatal care. In partnership with the Dominican Order of Malta, we have established three maternal and child health clinics over 20 years.

Our innovative “5 Stars” model encourages completion of essential health services for women throughout pregnancy and the first five years of the child’s life. HOPE is now adapting the “5 Stars” model to include a digital application to further support health education during pregnancy and early childhood and communication between health providers and patients. Project HOPE’s work in the Dominican Republic has resulted in national recognition from the Pan-American Health Organization, the Ministry of Health, the National Commission for Breast Feeding and the National Immunization Program.

Our History in the Dominican Republic
Project HOPE’s work in the Dominican Republic began in 1996 when we partnered with the Dominican Order of Malta to increase access to affordable, quality care for women, newborns and children in underserved communities. Our past work includes community outreach on HIV/AIDS, including the youth-focused USAID Alerta Joven program, and Zika. We have provided millions of dollars of donated medicines and supplies to the Ministry of Health and local health facilities in addition to support from expert Project HOPE medical volunteers.