Ilocos Norte eyes improved health care system

Laoag City—At the beginning of his term, Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Joseph M. Manotoc pledged to "further develop Ilocos Norte by investing in the health of Ilokanos," recognizing his constituents as "greatest assets" of the province.

With this, the provincial government of Ilocos Norte has been expanding its healthcare infrastructure to increase the capacities of all government-managed hospitals in the province.

For the fiscal year 2020, the provincial government allocated over PHP118 million for the improvement, rehabilitation, and renovation of the Governor Roque B. Ablan Sr. Memorial Hospital (GRBASMH) and the province’s district hospitals.

Included in the completed infrastructure projects in GRBASMH are the improvement of the computerized tomography (CT) scan building, renovation of the intensive care unit (ICU) room, and the rehabilitation of comfort rooms.

Also included are the rehabilitation of the operating and delivery rooms of Dingras District Hospital, while several fixtures at the Vintar District Hospital were repaired.

At present, the construction of a placenta pit, the sewerage system, and the medical oxygen generator warehouse at GRBASMH are ongoing, including the improvement of its dialysis center and operating room Complex.

Upgrading of medical facilities, services

Similarly, the provincial government continues to upgrade its health facilities to provide quality medical care to Ilokanos. Notably, the PHP20 million worth of oxygen generator plant will be operating this November 2020.

"Almost 90% of the warehouse for the medical oxygen generator has been constructed. The machine, its accessories, and the trained personnel are all set," according to Dr. Rogelio R. Balbag, Ilocos Norte Hospital Management Council executive officer.

"A shortage of medical oxygen supply has been one of the challenges in our district hospitals. With our oxygen generator, we will no longer import, instead, we will be able to produce our own. Also, Ilocos Norte can save a budget and even supply other private hospitals," he added.

Moreover, a “Malasakit Center” will soon open at GRBASMH. It is a one-stop-shop where patients can access medical and financial assistance offered by different government agencies.

"Masasabi ko na isang pet project ito ni Governor Manotoc. Hinihintay na lang namin ang launching date na ibibigay ng Office of the President bago ito buksan. Pagkatapos nito, inaasahan namin na lahat ng ating district hospitals ay magkakaroon na rin ng ‘Malasakit Center’," Dr. Balbag expressed.

"Simula noong naupo si Governor Manotoc, malaki na ang naging progreso ng ating health sector. Madami na tayong natapos na proyekto, marami pa tayong ginagawa, at madami pa tayong gagawin," he noted. (Blessing Angel V. Agliam)

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