The Mandaluyong City local government, in partnership with the Department of Health (DOH), conducted a health service visit to female persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) on Tuesday, March 7, as part of its celebration of National Women's Month and International Women's Day.
Mandaluyong City Vice Mayor Menchie Abalos and DOH OIC Dr. Maria Rosario Singh-Vergeire led the visit together with Metro Manila Regional Director Dr. Alellli Sudiacal, and Assistant Regional Director Pretchell Tolentino. Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Deputy Director General for Operations Ct/Supt. Dr. Ma. Lourdes Razon, and City Health Officer Dr. Arnold Abalos were also present during the visit.
Dubbed as the "DOH, Mandaluyong On The Ground," the program aims to provide health services to female PDLs in the facility which include HIV testing, genital/breast examination, dental care and extraction, as well as Covid-19 vaccination.
Abalos said they also visited the health facilities of CIW and its tuberculosis (TB) and cancer wards.
The DOH said it commits to equip and supply the facility with more medicines for PDLs comorbidities and cancer, among others, and more medical equipment such as wheelchairs and stretchers.
It will also provide other specialty care needs such as dialysis and mental health services to female PDLs.
"Moreover, in coordination with the Department of Justice (DOJ), the DOH shall also push for the approval of the health assessment of terminally-ill patients. With PhilHealth, the DOH also aims for 100 percent coverage of the healthcare services needed by our female PDLs. And as part of the Department’s efforts against Covid-19, vaccinations shall also continue," the DOH noted.
"This is not the last time you will see us here because we will ensure to bring quality health service to all of you. Everyone has the right to healthcare and with that, we pledge that we will improve the facilities and services for all of you. Ito ay hindi lang po para sa mga kababaihan kung hindi para sa lahat ng Juan at Juana (This is not just for women, but for every Juan and Juana)," Vergeire said.