FridayOL

Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental – Residents of remote villages in Negros Oriental province can now look forward to improved access to essential health services thanks to the Department of Health’s (DOH) flagship program, Purok Kalusugan. The DOH Negros Island Region (DOH-NIR) made this exciting announcement on Tuesday, promising a significant boost to healthcare accessibility at the grassroots level.

Purok Kalusugan, which translates to “health neighborhood,” is a strategic initiative designed to integrate primary care, disease prevention, and health promotion activities directly within communities. The program aims to establish dedicated health stations or posts within each purok (a small, localized community unit) ensuring that healthcare is brought closer to the people who need it most. This is particularly crucial in Negros Oriental, where many rural areas face challenges in accessing quality medical care due to distance and limited resources.

“Our commitment is to ensure that every Filipino, regardless of where they live, has access to basic health services,” stated Dr. [Insert Name, if available, or use “a DOH-NIR official”], during a press briefing. “The Purok Kalusugan program is a cornerstone of our efforts to achieve this goal. By bringing health services directly to the purok level, we eliminate barriers and empower communities to take proactive steps towards better health.”

What Services Will Be Offered?

The Purok Kalusugan stations are expected to provide a range of vital services, including:

• Basic Health Check-ups: Regular screenings for common illnesses and risk factors.
• Immunizations: Ensuring children and adults receive necessary vaccinations.
• Family Planning Services: Access to information and resources for reproductive health.
• Maternal and Child Health Care: Pre- and post-natal care for mothers and infants.
• Health Education: Promoting healthy lifestyles and disease prevention.
• First Aid and Emergency Response: Basic medical assistance in urgent situations.

Community Involvement is Key

The success of the Purok Kalusugan program hinges on strong community participation. The DOH-NIR is actively working to train and equip local health workers, known as BHWs (Barangay Health Workers), to operate the stations and provide essential services. These BHWs will be supported by a network of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and midwives.

“We want to foster a sense of ownership within the communities,” emphasized Dr. [Insert Name, if available, or use “a DOH-NIR official”]. “The BHWs are the heart of this program – they are trusted members of the community who can effectively connect with residents and deliver culturally sensitive health information.”

Looking Ahead

The DOH-NIR plans to roll out the Purok Kalusugan program across all municipalities of Negros Oriental in phases. The initial focus will be on the most underserved areas. With increased access to healthcare and empowered communities, Negros Oriental is poised to see a significant improvement in the overall health and well-being of its residents.

This initiative aligns with the national government’s broader health agenda, emphasizing primary care and preventive health measures to build a healthier Philippines.