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A healthy citizenry forms the foundation of a wealthy nation

Published Jul 26, 2023 04:15 pm
The health of a nation’s people is its greatest wealth. Progress and prosperity can only be sustained when the citizenry is healthy and free from diseases. The recent pandemic clearly illustrated that no amount of economic development can compensate for an unhealthy population. In this context, the 2nd State of the Nation Address (SONA) by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the significance of health in building a prosperous and resilient Philippines. His administration's achievements and vision toward a robust healthcare system were among the highlights. To ensure universal healthcare access for every Filipino, the President announced that the country’s healthcare system was “undergoing structural changes.” The focus was on increasing the number and capabilities of public health facilities. Notably, over 3,400 projects were completed last year, and 60 specialty centers have been opened, providing specialized medical treatment. The President noted that he had recently inspected the site of what will soon be a five-hectare multi-specialty center in Pampanga, which will specialize in pediatrics, cardiology, kidney, and cancer treatment. This bodes well for those living in the northern provinces as they do not need to travel to Metro Manila just to avail of excellent medical care. What was heard by Filipinos is the commitment of the administration for a “better and more efficient PhilHealth.” “We are working for a more direct, efficient delivery of services, through integrated primary care providers and networks, in partnership with the LGUs and our partners in the private sector. These shall of course be supported by what is now a better and more efficient PhilHealth.” The President was satisfied to report that over 93 percent of Filipinos are now PhilHealth members, enabling more individuals to access free healthcare services. In fact, PhilHealth’s Konsulta package, which includes 20 different medicines and 13 laboratory services, is available for free across over 2,000 Konsulta centers nation-wide, aimed at helping more indigent families. Additionally, the government's focus on primary medicines' affordability has had a tremendous impact on ordinary Filipinos. Prices of critical medications have decreased by 40 percent, and 59 essential medications for cancer, diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and mental illness have benefited from strategic VAT exemption. Furthermore, the administration did not forget the sacrifices of the heroes of the pandemic, as it is actively pursuing measures to improve the welfare of medical frontliners, such as doctors and nurses. "To repay the sacrifices of our healthcare workers in public and private hospitals during the pandemic, the Covid health emergency allowance will be distributed to them together with all their pending benefits," Marcos said. Four bills have already been filed in the House of the Representatives and the Senate on the amendment of the Magna Carta of Public Health Workers. The DOH bill version for the said legislation includes ongoing staff work along with salary standardization. Recognizing the full spectrum of healthcare needs, the administration has taken a comprehensive 360-degree view of the healthcare system. From providing assistance to indigents and optimizing the welfare of healthcare workers, to ensuring affordable and accessible medications for all, the reforms demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of every Filipino. If these healthcare reforms mentioned in the SONA are effectively implemented, we can wake up to a tomorrow filled with hope and optimism, knowing that a reliable healthcare system exists to support us and our family members in times of need.

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Roni Santiago
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