The medical and surgical team of Conrado F. Estrella extends its primary care services to residents of Barangay Loqeb Norte in Malasiqui, Pangasinan as one of the hospital’s commitments in providing health care access to communities in the province.
More than 300 residents of Barangay Loqeb Norte and its neighboring barangays flocked to the “Primary Care Medical and Surgical Mission” conducted by the Conrado F. Estrella Regional Trauma and Medical Center (CFERTMC), in Malasiqui, Pangasinan on August 25, 2023.
“This is one of our commitments to universal health care – to provide equitable, efficient, and effective health care services through the conduct of medical and dental missions, in partnership with local government units, non-government agencies, civic groups, religious organizations, and other government agencies,” CFERTMC Medical Center Chief Emerson B, Patawaran stated.
“We have been offering primary care services and promoting self-care to communities through a pro-active approach and at the same time integrating care, prevention, promotion and education to residents,” he added.
Among the free health care services provided were circumcision, tooth extraction, x-ray, medical check-up and laboratory services. Medicines were also given during the activity.
Patawaran said that residents needing higher levels of treatment and care will be properly referred to the nearest DOH hospital in the province.
To extend public education into all aspects of the community, health workers will often partner with local political systems, social work agencies, and schools.
DOH-Regional Director Paula Paz M, Sydiongco praised CFERTMC’s initiative of extending its health care services in the communities. “Napakalaking tulong ito sa mga residenteng hindi makapunta sa mga hospital dahil sa pangunahing dahilan na walang perang gagastusin sa pagpapagamot. Kaya ang ang ating mga ospital na mismo ang lalapit sa mga tao upang magbigay ng serbisyong pangkalusugan upang mapangalagaan at mabigyan sila ng tamang gamut sa kanilang mga suliranin sa kanilang kalusugan.”
She added that most residents in the communities do not get proper care due to socioeconomic factors that are beyond their control.
“Granting them direct and immediate access to health care services such as medical, dental, and pharmacy plus educating residents on the benefits of preventive care and healthy behaviors helps to facilitate life changes and reduce the need for expensive emergency care and hospitalizations,” Sydiongco emphasized.
“By educating residents on what resources are available to them and how they can access these we can empower them to take control of their own health.”
The activity was held at the Loqeb Norte Elementary School Gymnasium in coordination with the Loqeb Norte LGU.
CFERTMC is a retained hospital of the Department of Health – Ilocos Region located at the Government Center, Barangay Carmay East, Rosales, Pangasinan.
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