Dominican Republic to Provide Risdiplam Treatment for Children with Spinal Muscular Atrophy

The Dominican Republic allocates RD$300 million to purchase Risdiplam (Evrysdi) for children with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) enrolled in the high-cost medication program. The Ministry of Public Health announced the start of acquisition on July 13, 2026, ensuring one year of continuous treatment for current patients. Source: Listín Diario

What happened

The Ministry, led by Víctor Atallah, confirmed a budget of RD$300 million to finance the purchase of Risdiplam through the Dirección de Acceso a Medicamentos de Alto Costo (DAMAC). The first dose will be administered to Dayron Almonte Socias, a 1.5-year-old with SMA type 1, due to the urgency of his condition. Source: Infobae

The background

The announcement follows a protest by families of SMA patients on June 28, 2026, demanding inclusion of Evrysdi in the high-cost program. Previously, on March 9, Atallah had requested an actuarial study from Sisalril to evaluate permanent inclusion in the essential medicines catalog. Source: Diario Libre

Next steps

Newly diagnosed patients will be evaluated for coverage under the program's criteria. The Ministry coordinated with PROMESE/CAL, DIGEMAPS, and the manufacturer to expedite acquisition. The drug has FDA and EMA certifications. Source: Listín Diario