Go wants super health centers set up nationwide

MANILA, Philippines — Sen. Bong Go is pushing for the establishment of super health centers across the country to further improve people’s access to government health services, especially during a pandemic.

“The purpose of these centers is to bring government medical services closer to the people, especially in remote areas where these are most needed,” Go said.

“Pandemic or not, it is very important to accomplish this as people’s needs – especially when it comes to health – do not end,” he added

Go said the super health center he is advocating is a medium version of a polyclinic and an improved version of the rural health unit. It will be at least 514.3 square meters as initially planned.

The proposed centers will have laboratory and birthing facilities, pharmacy, out-patient department, dental services, comprehensive PhilHealth out-patient department and other minor services.

Go recommended that these super health centers be used as satellite vaccination sites for people living far from the urban centers.

He said the manpower needs of these super health centers should be sourced from rural health units.

Construction and installation of equipment in these centers, he said, would be included in the health facilities enhancement program of the Department of Health (DOH).

Funds needed for the establishment of initial number of super centers are included in the proposed budget of the DOH for next year.

“It is critical to reinforce our current health centers not just to meet the health requirement of individuals or families, but also to address public health issues and demands of the community,” said Go.