Exploring the health care status of two communities in the Dominican Republic.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: This article looks at two impoverished communities in the Dominican Republic that are working in collaboration with a USA-based organization to meet the physical, emotional, educational, and spiritual needs of the children in these areas. METHODS: An exploratory descriptive study was performed to establish baseline information. The knowledge gained from this study will provide guidance in the development of effective school-based strategies to meet the physical, emotional, and nutritional needs of the children. Data gathered from health records obtained during medical clinics in these two communities were reviewed. Descriptive statistics were performed to examine demographics, chief complaints, diagnoses, and treatments of approximately 1500 Dominicans. FINDINGS: Results support that living conditions and the lack of primary care continue to underpin the majority of health issues within these communities. OUTCOMES: School-based health initiatives along with a well child-screening programme are being developed to enhance the health of the children in these communities.