Dominican Medical College seeks stricter controls on medical uniforms

The Dominican Medical College (CMD) has called on authorities to implement stricter controls over the use and sale of medical uniforms and attire. The organization warns that individuals unaffiliated with the healthcare sector have used lab coats and other professional clothing to infiltrate medical facilities and commit crimes.

Led by president Dr. Luis Peña Núñez, the CMD's national board is requesting mechanisms to ensure that garments identifying doctors, nurses, and bioanalysts are only used by properly identified personnel. The group argues that regulating these uniforms will strengthen hospital security and prevent criminals from accessing restricted areas to commit robberies or assaults.

While the CMD notes that such incidents have occurred in the past, the organization did not provide specific statistics or documented cases to establish the exact frequency of these crimes. The request aligns with existing Ministry of Public Health regulations, which state that professional uniforms should be used exclusively within health establishments and prohibits their use in public outdoor areas.