Ministry of Public Health closes unlicensed blood bank in Santo Domingo Este

The Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Public Health has ordered the immediate closure of CEDALAB, a blood bank and clinical laboratory located in Villa Duarte, Santo Domingo Este. The facility was found to be operating without the mandatory sanitary license required by Law 42-01.

Inspections conducted by the Directorate of Health Services and Establishments revealed significant safety and operational deficiencies. These included improper handling and processing of blood samples, inadequate equipment maintenance, poor refrigeration and storage conditions, and mismanagement of biological waste. The report also noted issues regarding patient records, reagent storage, and personnel conditions.

While the facility’s owner, Manuela Cedano Valdez, claimed to hold a “no objection to plans” certification, authorities clarified that this document does not constitute a legal license to operate. Although the establishment began the certification process in June 2023, it never formally applied for or obtained the necessary operating permit. The closure is part of ongoing surveillance to ensure health establishments meet national safety standards.