The Provincial Government has announced plans to revitalize the health care facilities of the Province. It is a very timely announcement, especially because the Department of Health has set up its Negros Island Regional Office in our capital city of Dumaguete.
Health is a top priority for any thriving community, yet the state of health care in Negros Oriental has steadily declined over the years. This issue deserves urgent attention, as it impacts the well-being and productivity of the province’s residents.
The Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital, once a beacon of excellence and a teaching facility that attracted doctors from across the country, has sadly lost its status. The termination of its teaching program was a significant blow, not only to medical education but also to the quality of care provided to patients. This decline has had a ripple effect, with district hospitals in Siaton, Bindoy, Bais, Guihulngan, and Canlaon, as well as primary hospitals in remote mountain communities, now functioning more like first-aid stations than full-service medical facilities.
Patients with serious conditions are routinely referred to Dumaguete hospitals, creating logistical and financial burdens for families, especially those from rural areas. This system highlights a glaring disparity in health care access and underscores the need for a robust, decentralized approach to medical services.
The government must prioritize the revival of the provincial health care system. Reinstating the teaching program at the provincial hospital is a crucial step toward attracting medical professionals back to Negros Oriental. Moreover, equipping district and primary hospitals with modern facilities and trained personnel would significantly reduce the reliance on Dumaguete.
Health is a fundamental right, and the people of Negros Oriental deserve a system that meets their needs. It is time for the provincial and national governments to work hand-in-hand, ensuring that quality health care becomes a reality for all. The well-being of the province depends on it.
