VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur (PIA) -- The Department of Health (DOH) has recently turned over 10 blood bank refrigerators to the district hospitals in Magsingal, Narvacan, Sinait, Santa Lucia, Salcedo, as well as the Ilocos Sur Provincial Hospital.

Dr. Rosario Pamintuan of the DOH-Center for Health Development Ilocos said that the blood bank refrigerators will be used to maintain the integrity and quality of blood and blood components used for transfusions and medical treatments.

“Health facilities at the local level must have an efficient and sustainable blood program to ensure a sufficient and equitable supply to effectively manage and sustain the needs of patients,” Pamintuan said.

DOH-1 Regional Director Paula Paz Sydiongco called on the district hospitals to take good care of the donated equipment and make sure to have regular maintenance checks to ensure the refrigerators will function efficiently to safeguard the potency and quality of blood components.

“We must properly maintain government-provided medical equipment to improve patient services,” she reminded. (JCR/MJTAB/JMCQ, PIA Ilocos Sur)