Access to health services is among the pressing concerns of Filipinos especially those financially struggling and living in remote communities. It is very hard for them to visit clinics, hospitals and other medical facilities for medical check-up and seek medical attention when needed, thereby, compromising their health.
The Bagong Pilipinas Mobile Clinic
To address health concerns in remote areas, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., has initiated the Bagong Pilipinas Mobile Clinic project to bring quality healthcare services directly to the communities in need.
On September 20, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the turnover of the 28 Bagong Pilipinas mobile clinics in a ceremony at the Manila North Harbor Port in Manila as the President lamented that people from underserved and remote areas in the country have limited access to healthcare.
Basilan Province is one among the first 28 provinces who received the mobile clinic which is part of the government’s extensive and long-term plan under President Marcos Jr.’s 8-point action agenda on improving the health sector in the country.
In a media report, as the President delivers his message, he expressed hope that the Bagong Pilipinas mobile clinic will serve as a pioneering solution to provide essential health services to Filipinos.
“Sa pamamagitan ng mga mobile clinic at sa tulong ng lokal na pamahalaan, inaasahan natin na mapapalapit ang serbisyong medikal sa mga lugar na matagal nang nangangailang ng higit na atensyon, ang mga geographically isolated and disadvantaged area o ‘yung tinatawag natin na GIDA,” President Marcos said.
(Through the mobile clinics and with the help of the local government, we hope to bring medical services closer to areas that have long needed more attention, the geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas or what we call GIDA)
A state-of-the art health facility
The Bagong Pilipinas mobile clinic is a state-of-the-art health facility, equipped with cutting-edge medical equipment for comprehensive health examinations. Its arsenal includes a digital X-ray machine, portable ultrasound machine, hematology analyzer, chemistry analyzer, binocular microscope, clinical centrifuge, and a generator set.
The presence of the generator set addresses a significant concern in remote areas like Basilan, where power outages are common. This ensures that the mobile clinic’s operations will not be disrupted by electricity shortages or blackouts, allowing medical professionals to continue providing essential services to those in need. The mobile clinic’s services are designed to cater to the unique needs of rural communities, where access to healthcare is often limited.
Breaking the barriers
For the people of Basilan, the Bagong Pilipinas mobile clinic transcends the role of a mere healthcare facility; it stands as a powerful symbol of hope and a testament to their resilience. This initiative has broken barriers, ensuring that quality healthcare services are accessible to all, regardless of their circumstances. The clinic’s commitment to serving the community has instilled a renewed sense of optimism among Basileños, empowering them with security and confidence in their health. It reminds them that they are seen, heard, and importantly, not forgotten.
Dr. Sharifa Ann Abbas-Alvarez, Provincial Health Officer in Basilan province expressed gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., as she expressed that it was the first time in the province to receive and have this mobile clinic. She added that they will utilize this in their medical missions.
“This is our first time to have this mobile clinic actually. Timing din na we can utilize it sa ating mga medical mission. Importante dito na hindi yong pasyente ang pupunta dito specially yong mga GIDA, kami na po, ang Provincial Health Office (PHO) na ang pupunta sa kanila with the use of our mobile clinic,” Dr. Abbas expressed.
She also assured Basileños that their team and with the support of the provincial government, are committed to providing comprehensive medical care to the community, including vaccinations, check-ups, and treatment for various health conditions.
The launch of the Bagong Pilipinas mobile clinic and its arrival in Basilan is seen as a major breakthrough in addressing the health concerns of the Basileños, particularly in areas where access to healthcare is limited. As the project evolves in the province, it also promises a future where health disparities are diminished, and every Basileño can dream of a life filled with vitality and purpose, thus nurturing the spirit of a community that refuses to be forgotten. (EDT/NDR/PIA Basilan)
