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Town Hall

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Town Hall

Puerto Plata Town Hall – Ayuntamiento

Puerto Plata, a majestic city on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, is adorned with lush landscapes, beautiful beaches, and rich history. Central to this city’s administration is its town hall, locally referred to as the “Ayuntamiento.” For many years, this establishment has been the pivot for key decision-making processes that determine the city’s future. And in recent years, under the leadership of Mayor Diรณmedes Roque Garcรญa Nรบรฑez (Roquelito), the Ayuntamiento has seen numerous transformative changes.

Roquelito Garcia: A Brief Introduction

Roquelito Garcia’s journey to becoming the mayor of Puerto Plata has been a testament to his dedication to the city and its inhabitants. Known for his charismatic approach and vision for the city’s future, Garcia has always emphasized community engagement, infrastructural development, and promoting tourism in Puerto Plata.

Key Achievements During His Term

1. **Infrastructure Development: One of the most noticeable transformations under Garcia’s leadership has been in the realm of infrastructure. Recognizing the potential of Puerto Plata as a prime tourist destination, he has championed the redevelopment of roads, public spaces, and landmarks to make them more accessible and attractive to both residents and visitors.

2. **Promotion of Culture & Heritage: Garcia understands the rich cultural heritage of Puerto Plata. He has made significant efforts to preserve and promote the city’s historical landmarks, festivals, and cultural events, ensuring that the city remains a vibrant hub of Dominican culture.

3. **Environmental Conservation: Under Garcia’s administration, there has been a renewed focus on environmental conservation. Initiatives aimed at promoting cleaner beaches, reducing pollution, and increasing green spaces have been introduced, making the city a more sustainable place to live and visit.

4. **Strengthened Local Economy: Through strategic partnerships, investment initiatives, and support for local businesses, Garcia has played a pivotal role in bolstering the city’s economy. Efforts have been made to diversify the economy, offering incentives to businesses, and creating an environment conducive to investment.

 

5. **Community Engagement: Garcia’s approach has always been community-centric. By regularly holding town hall meetings, listening to the needs and concerns of the residents, and involving them in decision-making processes, he has ensured that the city’s development is in line with the aspirations of its inhabitants.

The Puerto Plata Ayuntamiento, under the leadership of Roquelito Garcia, has seen a phase of reinvigoration. His dedication to the well-being of the city and its inhabitants is evident in the numerous positive changes that have come about during his tenure. As Puerto Plata continues to grow and develop, the foundation laid by leaders like Garcia ensures that its future remains bright. Mr Garcia won a second term by a landslide election for the 2024-2028 period.

Contact
Ayuntamiento de Puerto Plata
C. Separaciรณn, Puerto Plata 57000
Tel. +1809-586-2526

Medical Centers

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Medical Centers

Puerto Plata medical centers offer the peace of mind residents need before making a decision to invest and live in this region.

Automobiles

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Automobiles

Buying a car in the Dominican Republic is just as easy as in any other country, and Puerto Plata is no exception. There are various choices, first you need to determine whether you want to buy a brand new, or second hand vehicle.

Medical Labs

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Medical Labs

Puerto Plata Labs for Medical Tests

Puerto Plata, a gem located on the northern coast of the Dominican Republic, is best known for its picturesque beaches, lush rainforests, and rich history. But beyond its tourist appeal, Puerto Plata is also emerging as a hotspot for medical diagnostics and research. The labs scattered throughout this region are not just serving the local community but are setting standards for the entire Caribbean.

Top Medical Labs in Puerto Plata:

Laboratorio Referencia
C/Antera Mota #70, Plaza Milano, Regiรณn Norte,
Tel.ย (809) 261-8181

Laboratorio Puerto Plata
C. Beller #124, Puerto Plata 57000
Tel. (809) 586-3030

Laboratorio Costa Norte
Calle El Morro, Puerto Plata 57000
Tel. (809) 970-2171

Laboratorio Patria Rivas
Calle Beller esq. Eugenio Deschamps, Puerto Plata
Tel. (809) 685-0950 ext 4110

Growth and Development of Medical Labs:

Over the past decade, Puerto Plata has witnessed a considerable increase in the number and quality of medical labs. This growth can be attributed to:

1. **Increased Demand: As the population grows and becomes more health-conscious, there is a rising demand for quality diagnostic services.
2. **Medical Tourism: The Dominican Republic, and Puerto Plata in particular, has been attracting medical tourists seeking quality healthcare at affordable prices.
3. **Government Initiatives: The government’s emphasis on healthcare and infrastructure development has played a crucial role in attracting investments in the medical lab sector.

State-of-the-Art Technologies

Many labs in Puerto Plata are now equipped with cutting-edge diagnostic equipment. From advanced blood analyzers to genetic testing tools, these labs are at the forefront of medical technology. The presence of such high-end technology ensures accurate and timely results, making it easier for healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat illnesses.

Specialized Services Offered

Beyond routine blood tests and X-rays, many labs in Puerto Plata offer specialized services, including:

– **Genetic Testing: For conditions like cancer predisposition, genetic disorders, and ancestry.
– **Allergy Testing: Pinpointing specific allergens for individuals to guide treatment and management.
– **Endocrinology Tests: Assisting in the diagnosis of hormonal imbalances and related diseases.
– **Pathology Services: Including biopsies and cytologies.

Training and Quality Control

The success of Puerto Plata’s medical labs isn’t solely due to technology. Human expertise plays a pivotal role. Many labs have tie-ups with international medical institutions for training and quality control. Regular audits, both internal and from international bodies, ensure that the labs maintain global standards of accuracy and reliability.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

While Puerto Plata’s medical labs have made significant advancements, challenges remain. Ensuring consistent quality across all labs, managing the rapid influx of medical tourists, and addressing the evolving needs of the local community are all areas that require attention. However, with continued investment, training, and a commitment to excellence, Puerto Plata’s medical labs are well-positioned to become leaders not just in the Caribbean, but globally.

Pharmacies

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Pharmacies

Puerto Plata has a good number of pharmacies available, with available delivery services, networked branches, and some located in medical centers or very close to them. Get familiar with the local Farmacia Cristal, the nationwide available Farmacia Carol, budget friendly Farma Value and other smaller ones scattered throughout the North Coast.

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Medical Supplies

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Medical Supplies

Medical Supplies in Puerto Plata

Medical supplies in Puerto Plata are easily found on various stores in the city, some are exclusively dedicated for this market, and others are pharmacies with the smaller size items that fit their shelves; not the larger bedding or mobility-related items that take up more space as in the case of specific medical supply stores as the ones below.

farmaconal Puerto Plata R

Farmaconal has 20 stores spread throughout the island, have a very good inventory and each store can supply the other, meaning you might run out of an item in Puerto Plata and they can request it from their Santo Domingo or Santiago store, and deliver to you within a day or two. They have been in the market for 50 years, that alone tells a success story in service.

They carry most major brands and supplies, including digital and manual blood pressure meters, blood sugar testing strips, oxygen tanks, manual and motorized beds, bathroom safety products, nebulators, specially designed pillows, mobility equipment, reclining chairs and most other supplies needed in the medical field and long term care of patients and seniors.

Farmaconal Puerto Plata
https://farmaconal.com
809.547.5000 Ext. 321, 322
Calle Beller #129
Monday-Friday 8am – 6pm/ Saturdays 8:30am – 12:30pm

The list of products found in these medical supply stores are the basic day-to-day needs products and expendable medical supplies, such as:

  • Wheelchairs ( motorized and manual powered)
  • Crutches
  • Walkers
  • Mobility Scooters
  • Bath Benches and Stools
  • Bath Lifts
  • Safety Rails
  • Grab Bars
  • Toilet Seat Raisers
  • Transfer Benches
  • Oxygen Therapy
  • Bariatric Beds
  • Bed Rails
  • Male and Female Guards
  • Orthopedic Products

Hernandez Vargas Medical Supply

Another medical products supplier of Puerto Plata is Hernandez Vargas, offering an inventory of braces, compression stockings, orthopedic products and other daily use supplies.

Hernandez Vargas
C. 12 de Julio 59, Puerto Plata 57000
Phone: (809) 261-8083

The rest of the suppliers in town are mostly pharmacies, such as Farmacia Centro, Farmacia Carol, and so on. Those we have published in the Pharmacy page on this website.

There are other larger suppliers in bigger cities such as Santiago or Santo Domingo; If you need a product not available in the island you can always buy it online and have it shipped here using a courier service.

pharmacies in Puerto Plata

Doctors

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Doctors

Doctors in Puerto Plata

Finding a doctor in Puerto Plata is easy now that the Access Passportยฎ staff have put togetherย  an organized list based on medical centers and providers directories. We all have our favorite doctors based on their experience and performance.

Please know, you might be limited to the ones you choose based on your insurance provider, unless you pay out of pocket at any given time, or change your insurance provider. The page on Puerto Plata Insurance has links we will also include here, for the providers (doctors) directory.

Bournigal medical logo

Bournigal Medical Center being the largest in Puerto Plata, it has a well organized directory of doctors from all specialties. We have added here a pdf of their directory, the live link is here:ย 

https://www.centromedicobournigal.com/directorio

As professional photographers might say in their quest to capture light, getting the “Magic Triangle” to work for you means balancing the three key elements to get the health care you want: The best medical center, insurance provider, and your favorite doctor, all in sync. This is why we publish the insurance network and the medical center directory, so you can tell who works where.

 

Dominican Driver License

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Dominican Driver License

Dominican Driver License – INTRANT

Dominican Driver License registration is done at the INTRANT, the body of government that regulates transit in the island on land, including all the category levels of driving.

NOTE: Travelers to the Dominican Republic can use their own driver’s license during their stay in the Dominican Republic, shown in their tourist card (60-90 days). If you prefer to do so, you can also apply for an international drivers license.

How to Apply for a Dominican Driver’s License:

In the Dominican Republic, when you first apply for a driver’s license you get a Learning permit for 2 weeks, after you pass a theoretical exam. Then after 15 days you take the practical exam (driving) to get the final license.

In order to apply for a driver’s license in Puerto Plata (or anywhere in DR) you need to go online and make an appointment. Once you have the QR code then you can go to the Intrant’s office closest to you an follow the procedure to apply.

INTRANT’S VIRTUAL OFFICE

Issuance of the First Driver’s License – Practical Exam:

Consists of obtaining the official document to drive motor vehicles within the country, after having demonstrated the moral and physical conditions to possess the document, as well as theoretical-practical knowledge of driving and the legal provisions in force in the country regarding driving motor vehicles.

The driver’s license, according to the law, is valid for four (4) years from its issuance.
Who is it for: Citizens from the age of 16.
Department that offers it: Directorate of Driver’s Licenses.

  • Original Government ID
  • No unpaid traffic fines.
  • Make the payment of taxes for services.
  • Pay online through the INTRANT Virtual Office, with a credit and/or debit card at the place where the service will be performed or at the BanReservas Bank.
  • Submit the current Learning Card, after 15 days have elapsed from its issuance (45 days for minors) and not having exceeded six months from its issuance. - In the event that the Learning Card is expired, with less than one year from the date of its issue, you must pay the Renewal of Learning Card tax. Learning and Practical Exam. You can make the payment through the INTRANT virtual office.ย 
  • Approved practical exam with a minimum score of 75 points.
  • Procedures to follow
  • 1. Show up before the central headquarters or regional offices of the INTRANT Driver's License Directorate.
  • 2. Go through Registration.
  • 3. Approved practical exam.
  • 4. Go through photo capture and signature.
  • 5. Receive your driver's license document.

Working Hours: 8:00am-4:00pm
Cost: RD$2,500.00
ETA: 1 Hour

Official Source in Spanish - INTRANT


Among the other services offered by the National Institute of Transit and Transportation of the Dominican Republic:

  • Category 5 Driver’s License
  • Diplomatic Driver’s License
  • Double Trailer Special Permit
  • License Plates for Buggies and Trailers
  • Driver’s License for Military
  • Driver’s License for 16 year old minors

 

Logo intrant
Click the logo to view all the services available at the Intrant

 

Photo Gallery

 

Housing

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Housing

Puerto Plata Real Estate

Puerto Plata real estate is a very dynamic industry in the Dominican Republic, and specially in the beach towns of Sosua, Cabarete, Cofresi and Costambar, where growth has been steady for the past several years, specially fueled by the vacation villa rental and retirement homes.

San Felipe, which is the main district inside the city, is also an attractive option for residential living, closeness to several golden sand beaches, and the many amenities and tours in the North Coast region.

 

 

Insurance

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Insurance

Puerto Plata Insurance

Insurance services in Puerto Plata are available through the Dominican social security system, created by law 87-01 on May 9, 2001. Travelers and most foreign residents will be using private insurance, here we explain providers and coverage.ย  Use the Google Translate link below and copy paste the link of the website you need translated from Spanish.

Google translate
Click for Google translation.

Health Insurance

 

ARS Humano insurance

ARS Humano: One of the most widely used health insurance in the Dominican Republic. You can find them in Puerto Plata, Sosua and other North Coast cities too. It is not the cheapest, but quality is no question when it comes to health services. The page is in English, just copy the link and hit the Google Translate button above.

https://humanoseguros.com

ARS Humano Providers Index (Search Engine)

ARS Universal Seguros

ARS Universal: This insurance provider is from the Popular Bank group in Dominican Republic, and has a great reputation and coverage, one of the top three in the market. Their website explains the whole catalog of services they offer, use the translator link to read it in English.

https://www.arsuniversal.com.do

ARS Universal Providers Index (Search Engine)

Mapfre Seguros

Mapfre Salud is another serious player in the Dominican Republic insurance market, highly recommended. They offer a wide range of insurance options, including the Dx7, which covers 7 key illnesses we all should be covered for, just in case. The Palic Insurance group merged with Mapfre, so now they’re an even bigger player in the market.

https://www.mapfrebhd.com.do/

Mapfre ARS Provider Index (Search Engine)

ARS Banreservas

ARS Banreservas belongs to the Dominican Republic State-owned bank, Ban Reservas. It has the trust of the people in the island, backed by the government. It offers a wide range of options for health insurance, as well as other insurance products.

https://www.arsreservas.com/

https://www.segurosreservas.com

ARS Reservas Providers Index (Search Engine)

Futuro ARS

ARS Futuro has a large network of providers, and offers plans starting with the basic that covers hospitalization, medication, dental, pregnancy and birth, emergencies, and much more. Take a look in their website and remember to use the Google Translator to read it in English.

https://www.arsfuturo.com/

ARS Futuro Providers index

These Dominican insurance providers also offer the following types of insurance you might also be considering in The North Coast region of the island, or any other city in the country. Puerto Plata insurance agents will also be listed here so you can find a quick reference.

Auto Insurance

Home Insurance

Life Insurance

Travel Insurance

International Insurance

 

Dominican Republic social security
Law 87-01 created the Dominican Social Security System.

The Dominican Social Security System

The Dominican Social Security System (SDSS) is organized on the basis of specialization and separation of functions. The management, regulation, financing and supervision correspond exclusively to the State and are inalienable, while the functions of risk management and provision of services will be in charge of public, private or mixed entities duly accredited by the competent public institution. In this sense, the SDSS will be composed of the following entities:

a) The National Social Security Council (CNSS), an autonomous public entity, the highest body of the System;

b) The Social Security Treasury, entity responsible for the collection, distribution and payment of the financial resources of the SDSS, and the administration of the single information system;

c) The Directorate of Information and Defense of the Insured (DIDA), a public agency for orientation, information and defense of the beneficiaries;

d) The Superintendence of Pensions, autonomous public entity supervising the branch;

e) The Superintendency of Occupational Health and Risks, an autonomous public entity supervising the branch;

f) The National Health Insurance (SNS), public and autonomous entity;

g) The Pension Fund Administrators (AFP), of a public, private or mixed nature;

h) The Health Risk Administrators (ARS), public, private or mixed, with or without profit;

i) The Health Service Providers (PSS), public, private or mixed, with or without profit;

j) Public, private or mixed entities, for-profit and non-profit, that carry out complementary social security functions as their main activity.

The system is very well organized, important to understand if you invest in the Dominican Republic or live long term with employees or as an employee. We have added the full list of contacts just after the FAQ below. Links to sources in Spanish are also included at the bottom in case you need to cross reference in our native language. Just click any of the tabs below to expand and show its content.

 

It is a public social protection system created by Law 87-01 enacted on May 9, 2001. Its nature is universal, mandatory, supportive, plural and comprehensive in order to grant constitutional rights to the population; and regulate and develop the reciprocal duties and rights of the State and citizens in relation to financing for the protection of the population against the risks of old age, disability, unemployment due to old age, survival, illness, maternity, childhood and occupational risks. This system brings together, articulates, regulates and supervises all public, private and mixed institutions dedicated to main or complementary Social Security activities in the Dominican Republic.

All Dominican citizens must be registered; and foreigners legally residing in the country.

  • The National Social Security Council (SDSS)
  • The Social Security Treasury (ISS)
  • The Directorate for Information and Defense of Social Security Affiliates (DIDA)
  • The Superintendence of Health and Occupational Risks (SISALRIL)
  • The Superintendence of Pensions (SIPEN)
  • The Occupational Risk Administrator (ARL)
  • The National Health Insurance (SENASA)
  • The Pension Fund Administrators (AFP)
  • The Health Risk Administrators (ARS)
  • The Providers of Health (PSS)
  • and public, private or mixed entities with or without profit. That carry out complementary functions of social security.

It is the highest body of the Dominican Social Security System (SDSS). It is in charge of directing and conducting the System, establishing policies and regulating the functioning of its institutions. It guarantees the extension of coverage, defends the beneficiaries and watches over the institutional development, the integrality of the programs and the financial balance of the SDSS.

Other responsibilities include: establishing social security policies aimed at comprehensive protection and the general welfare of the population; ensure the elevation of the levels of equity, solidarity and citizen participation to reduce poverty, promote women, protect children and old age, and preserve the environment. Carry out the necessary studies to extend Social Security protection to citizens and submit the corresponding proposals to the Executive Branch for approval purposes.

  • The Secretary of State for Labour, who chairs it.
  • The Secretary of State for Public Health and Social Assistance, Vice President.ย 
  • The Director General of the Dominican Institute of Social Security.
  • The Director of the Aid and Housing Institute.
  • The Governor of the Central Bank.
  • A representative of the Dominican Medical College.
  • A representative of the other health professionals and technicians.
  • Three employer representatives, chosen by their sectors.
  • Three representatives of the workers, chosen by their sectors.ย 
  • A representative of the nursing unions.
  • A representative of the professionals and technicians, chosen by their sectors.
  • A representative of the disabled, indigent and unemployed.ย 
  • A representative of the workers of micro enterprises.

Entity responsible for the collection, distribution and payment of the financial resources of the SDSS, and the administration of the Single Information and Collection System (SUIR).

Their functions are:

1) Collect, distribute and allocate SDSS resources

2) Detect delinquency, evasion and avoidance, subdue offenders and collect fines and collections. 3) Propose to the CNSS initiatives to improve information, collection, distribution and payment systems.

4) Submit a monthly report to the CNSS on the financial situation of the SDSS.

The TSS main office is located at: Av. Tiradentes, No. 33, Social Security Tower, Enlargement Naco, Santo Domingo, National District. Central Telephone Number: (809)567-5049 Fax #: (809)567-9252 Website address: www.tss.gov.do E-mail address: info@tss.gov.do

It is a technical unit of the National Social Security Council (CNSS) with a defined budget and operational autonomy. It is an instrument of defense and orientation of the members of the SDSS. Is responsible for:

โ€“ Promote the Dominican Social Security System (SDSS) and inform members about their rights and duties.

โ€“ Receive claims and complaints, as well as process and monitor them until their final resolution. โ€“ Advise affiliates on their friendly or contentious appeals, for denial of benefits, through the procedures and appeals established by Law 87-01 and its complementary regulations.

โ€“ Carry out studies on the quality and timeliness of the services of the AFPs, the National Health Insurance (SENASA) and the ARS, and disseminate their results, in order to objectively contribute to the member's decision-making.

โ€“ Supervise the functioning of the SDSS from the user's point of view.

The main office of the DIDA is located at: Av. Tiradentes, No. 33, Social Security Tower, Ensanche Naco, Santo Domingo, National District; It also has offices in: Azua, Barahona, La Romana, Santiago, San Pedro de Macorรญs, San Francisco de Macorรญs and Higรผey. Central Telephone No.: (809)472-1900 Fax #: (809)563-3488 Website address: www.dida.gob.do E-mail address: dida@dida.gov.do

 

Consejo Nacional de Seguridad Social
http://www.cnss.gob.do Tesorerรญa de la Seguridad Social
http://www.tss.gob.do Superintendencia de Salud y Riesgos Laborales
http://www.sisalril.gov.do/ Direcciรณn de Informaciรณn y Defensa de los Afiliados
http://www.dida.gob.do Empresa Procesadora de la Base de Datos del Sistema Dominicano de Seguridad Social, Unipago, S. A.
http://www.unipago.com.do SENASA
https://www.arssenasa.gob.do SNS
https://sns.gob.do/ Instituto Dominicano de Prevenciรณn y Protecciรณn de Riesgos Laborales (IDOPPRIL)
http://idoppril.gob.do/ INABIMA
https://www.inabima.gob.doAFP Crecer
Tel. (809) 688-4040
C/ Porfirio Herrera #29, Torre INICA, 1er piso, Evaristo Morales, 10147, Santo Domingo, Repรบblica Dominicana.
https://www.afpcrecer.com.doAFP Popular
Tel. (809) 544-7777
Tel. 1 (809)200-7767 desde el interior sin cargos
Av. Abraham Lincoln #702 Ens. Piantini Santo Domingo, Repรบblica Dominicana.
http://www.afppopular.com.doAFP Reservas
Tel. (809) 960-7000
C/ Max Henrรญquez Ureรฑa #83, esq. Freddy Prestol Castillo, Plaza Morichal, local 7-A, Ensanche Piantini. Santo Domingo, Repรบblica Dominicana.
http://www.afpreservas.comAFP Siembra
Tel. (809) 567-2371
Tel. 1(809)200-2371 desde el interior sin cargos.
Calle Virgilio Dรญaz Ordรณรฑez, Esq. Gustavo Mejรญa Ricart, Primer Piso, Edif. Mezzo ย– Tempo, Ens. Evaristo Morales. Santo Domingo, Repรบblica Dominicana.ย  http://www.afpsiembra.comAFP Romana
Tel. (809) 813-2794
Avenida Libertad, La Romana, Rep. Dom.
http://www.afpromana.comAFP Atlรกntico
Tel. (809) 535-1999
Calle Embajador #65, Plaza Comercial Embajador II, Bella Vista Santo Domingo, Repรบblica Dominicana.
http://www.afpatlantico.com/AFP JMMB
Tel. (809)566-5662
Av. Gustavo Mejรญa Ricart No. 102, esq. Ave. Abraham Lincoln,ย Edificio Corporativo 2010 piso 15, Santo Domingo, Repรบblica Dominicana.
http://www.jmmb.com.do/

Resources (Spanish):

 

Find a doctor in Puerto Plata

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