Dominican Republic launches High Cost Drug Fund for full medication coverage

The Dominican Republic has officially launched the High Cost Drug Fund (FOMAC) to provide 100% coverage for essential medications without copayments. Approved by the National Council of Social Security (CNSS) and presented by the Ministry of Public Health and SISALRIL, the initiative aims to support patients facing complex pathologies where annual treatment costs can reach up to 16 million pesos.

In its initial phase, the fund will cover 13 key drugs targeting approximately 6,400 affiliates. Included conditions are various types of cancer (such as breast, lung, and childhood cancers), rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn's disease, and spinal muscular atrophy.

The implementation includes a transition and operational capitalization period of up to twelve months. To ensure financial sustainability, the system will utilize centralized volume purchasing to generate significant savings. Funding will be drawn directly from the Family Health Insurance (Seguro Familiar de Salud) without requiring additional contributions from workers or employers.