In a significant move to bolster healthcare in the newly established Negros Island Region, the Department of Health (DOH-NIR) has set forth its key objectives during a press conference held in Dumaguete City. Regional Director Razel Nikka Hao highlighted the urgent need to improve healthcare accessibility throughout the region, encompassing Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, and Siquijor.
Hao stressed the importance of establishing primary care facilities and hospitals across the region, with plans to upgrade these to Level 1 or Level 2 status. Such enhancements are crucial for obtaining PhilHealth accreditation, which would significantly improve the quality of services offered.
Addressing cultural and linguistic diversity, the DOH-NIR aims to foster unity among health workers from different provinces through integration workshops. This initiative is expected to enhance communication and service delivery across the region.
The DOH-NIR has identified several priority health programs, including immunization, nutrition, reproductive health, tuberculosis, HIV, non-communicable diseases, mental health, and water and sanitation.
Governor Manuel Sagarbarria of Negros Oriental expressed strong support for the DOH-NIR’s initiatives, underscoring his administration’s focus on healthcare. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the province and the necessity of collaboration to achieve their goals.
Sagarbarria announced plans to upgrade either Siaton District Hospital or Bindoy District Hospital, or possibly both, to Level 1 facilities within the year. He clarified that while the Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital serves as a model for healthcare systems and programs, the ultimate goal is to extend these improvements to district hospitals, ensuring comprehensive and sustainable healthcare services throughout the region.