SEN. Christopher "Bong" Go lauded the turnover of the new Super Health Center (SHC) in Barangay Poblacion 3 in Pigcawayan, North Cotabato on Friday, February 9, saying this would significantly enhance primary care services for the community.
"This Super Health Center is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that every Filipino has access to quality health care. I am proud to see such initiatives come to fruition, especially in areas where medical services are much needed," said Go, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health and Demography.
The SHC in Pigcawayan aims to decongest hospitals by providing primary care services to the community, thereby improving overall health outcomes.
The center will offer various services, including database management, outpatient care, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: X-ray and ultrasound), pharmacy, and an ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation centers, and telemedicine, making remote patient diagnosis and treatment possible.
Furthermore, free consultations at the Super Health Center will be facilitated through the collaborative efforts of municipal health offices, local government units (LGUs), and the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) under its Konsulta program. According to Go, this initiative is part of the government's effort to make health care more accessible and affordable for all Filipinos.
Meanwhile, Go also lauded the local government of Pigcawayan, led by Mayor Juanito Agustin, as they played a pivotal role in realizing this project. Their collaboration and support have been crucial in ensuring the successful establishment of the Super Health Center.
Aside from the mayor, the event was attended by District 1 Board Member Sittie Antao-Balisi and Councilor Aaron Bulaclac, among others.
As the vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, along with the backing from the DoH led by Secretary Teodoro "Ted" Herbosa and collaborative efforts from local government units and fellow legislators, ample funding was secured in the 2022 national budget to establish 307 Super Health Centers.
More funds were allocated in the 2023 budget for 322 additional Super Health Centers. Additionally, 132 SHCs received funding in 2024. In North Cotabato alone, 16 Super Health Centers were funded. JAVIER JOE ISMAEL
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