# Senate approves first reading of Health Tourism Council

Canonical-URL: https://turismo.news/en/digest/national-health-tourism-council
Text-Version: https://turismo.news/en/digest/national-health-tourism-council.txt
Markdown-Version: https://turismo.news/en/digest/national-health-tourism-council.md
Language: en
Published: 2026-07-28T17:31:24.990Z
Modified: 2026-07-28T17:31:24.990Z
Author: Joan Sanz
Topics: Política Turística
Summary: The Dominican Senate approved on first reading the bill creating the National Council for Health Tourism Development. A solid step toward diversification.

## Article

The Dominican Senate has passed on **first reading** the bill creating the **National Council for Health Tourism Development**, as reported by [Arecoa](https://www.arecoa.com/turismo-de-salud/2026/07/28/senado-aprueba-creacion-del-consejo-nacional-de-desarrollo-de-turismo-de-salud/). At Turismo News we see this as a smart move: health tourism is one of the fastest-growing segments, and a dedicated governing body can professionalize the sector and attract investment.

The law still needs a **second reading** in the Senate and approval from the Chamber of Deputies, but the message is clear. The country is betting on diversification beyond sun and beach. In my opinion, this council could link clinics, hotels and airlines to create integrated packages for international patients. We'll be watching the next steps closely.

## Sources

- Arecoa: https://www.arecoa.com/turismo-de-salud/2026/07/28/senado-aprueba-creacion-del-consejo-nacional-de-desarrollo-de-turismo-de-salud/

## Citation

Senate approves first reading of Health Tourism Council. Turismo News. 2026-07-28. https://turismo.news/en/digest/national-health-tourism-council