Experts Call for Stronger Primary Care to Address Rising Respiratory Diseases

The Dominican Society of Pulmonology and Thoracic Surgery organized a regional conference to strengthen primary care's role in managing respiratory diseases, which remain among the leading causes of medical consultations and hospitalizations in the Dominican Republic. The initiative, called 'El Primer Paso' (The First Step), focused on the northeast region and emphasizes the critical importance of early detection and intervention at the primary care level. Respiratory conditions continue to be a significant public health burden, requiring coordinated efforts across healthcare systems. Strengthening primary care infrastructure is essential for reducing disease progression, improving patient outcomes, and decreasing hospital admissions related to respiratory illnesses.