The Essential Medicines and Central Logistics Support Program (Promese/CAL) commemorated its 40th anniversary by highlighting two of its main achievements in the last four years: a historic expansion of the People’s Pharmacy Network and a robust institutional strengthening.
In a ceremony to raise the national flag held at the institution’s main headquarters, its general director, Adolfo Pérez, explained that the opening of one hundred new Farmacias del Pueblo in the administration of President Luis Abinader has been one of the largest expansions in its history in such a short time, bringing them to a total of 644 establishments nationwide.
“This expansion represents a substantial improvement in access to essential medicines, benefiting more than 5 million Dominicans every month. Prices at Farmacias del Pueblo remain significantly lower than at commercial pharmacies, providing crucial relief for Dominican families, easing the financial burden of healthcare.”
Institutional strengthening and transparent management
In parallel, Promese/CAL has strengthened its institutional structure to ensure more transparent and efficient management. From August 2020 to July 2024, the institution carried out 958 procurement processes for medicines and supplies, all in accordance with the Public Procurement and Contracting Law 340-06.
This approach has allowed a contract management that, in the indicated period, totals RD 37,462,161,181.80 and a consolidated relationship with more than 400 suppliers, highlighting a firm commitment to transparency and accountability.
Perez emphasized that the combination of these achievements represents a significant advance in public health management. The expansion of the Farmacias del Pueblo not only expands access to medicines, but also ensures that citizens can benefit from adequate prices. Institutional strengthening ensures a more efficient administration of resources, which has a positive impact on the quality of the public health system.
With these advances, Promese/CAL not only celebrates four decades of service, but also lays the groundwork for a healthier and more equitable future. The institution remains focused on improving access to medicines and strengthening public confidence, reaffirming its commitment to the health and well-being of all Dominicans.
The event was attended by deputy directors Luis Lizardo, Andrea Difó, Carlos Padilla and Gilberto Santana, as well as directors, managers and collaborators of the institution.
About Promese/CAL
The Essential Medicines Program and Logistics Support Center (Promese/CAL) is the only central supply center for medicines, health supplies and laboratory reagents for the National Health Service’s hospital network. It also provides outpatient pharmaceutical dispensing through its network of Farmacias del Pueblo, located throughout the country, benefiting more than 4.5 million Dominicans every month. For more information, visit: https://promesecal.gob.do/index.php
Source:presidencia.gob.do
