Mission Friendship 2026 benefits nearly 2,000 people in La Vega with medical services
The province of La Vega was the setting for an outstanding health event called Mission Friendship 2026, a health cooperation initiative that managed to positively impact some 1,900 citizens. The operation, executed through a strategic alliance between the Ministry of Public Health of the Dominican Republic and the United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), reaffirmed the ties of solidarity between both nations.
During the development of this mission, residents of various communities had access to specialized care at no cost. The portfolio of services included consultations in general and family medicine, dentistry, ophthalmology, pediatrics, psychology, and dermatology. In addition to direct assistance, patients received vital guidance on disease prevention and strategies for promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Strengthening bilateral cooperation
The Minister of Public Health, Víctor Atallah, led the closing ceremony together with the United States Ambassador, Leah Campos, and other civil and military authorities. Atallah highlighted that these sessions not only improve the quality of life for Dominicans, but also consolidate the diplomatic and operational relationship between the two countries.
We will always be willing and open for these missions to continue and for our doctors who are here to understand that bringing health to people is a commitment.
Víctor Atallah, Minister of Public Health
For her part, Ambassador Leah Campos highlighted the importance of proactivity in healthcare. According to the diplomat, creating effective alliances before crisis situations occur is fundamental to ensuring the well-being of the people. In the same vein, Southern Command Brigadier General Tara Nolan stressed that the success of the mission transcends the number of patients treated, focusing on the mutual trust built between the medical teams of both countries.
Knowledge and skills exchange
The mission, which took place from August 3 to 14, 2026, was led by the United States Air Forces Southern Command (AFSOUTH). During these two weeks, the specialists worked in an integrated manner at the Dr. Luis Morillo King Regional University Hospital and the Dra. Almida García Municipal Hospital.
- Direct care for hundreds of patients across various specialties.
- Technical training and clinical experience exchange sessions.
- Strengthening preparedness for future health emergencies.
- Adoption of best practices for local and foreign health personnel.
The closing event featured the presence of prominent figures such as the governor of La Vega, Luisa Jiménez; Mayor Amparo Custodio; Minister of Defense, Carlos Onofre, and various deputy ministers of Health, who agreed that these types of efforts are fundamental pillars for the development of a more resilient and efficient healthcare system.
