MARIVELES, Bataan — Mariveles Mental Wellness and General Hospital (MMWGH) launched today an online mental health consultation to provide psychological or psychosocial support to Bataan residents during the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
MMWGH Chief Maria Lourdes Evangelista said the Zero Kilometro Bataan COVID-19 Response will prioritize health workers during its pilot launching as they are more prone to stress and anxiety during this crisis.
“In times that a non-healthcare worker seek mental health assistance, we will still respond. We will just prioritize healthcare workers for the two months of the pilot launching. But it doesn’t mean that we will not respond to the needs of other residents,” Evangelista stressed during an orientation meeting with affiliated agencies and stakeholders.
Clients can seek psychological or mental health assistance thru ‘zkmbataan’ on Facebook. By messaging the social media platform and after profiling, a Zero Kilometro representative will directly call the client for scheduling of sessions.
Various agencies will carry out sessions and will be responsible for referrals to other agencies that can further provide answer to the client’s concern.
Moreover, the program is continuously supported by Bataan Second District Representative Jose Enrique Garcia III, providing logistics and technical assistance including the procurement of equipment needed by hospital personnel for its operation.
“Aside from those who are getting sick, those who lost their jobs, and other situations we are facing today, I think this Zero Kilometro is very timely as we want to provide aid especially to our frontline heath workers to strengthen their mental health,” he said.
The solon provided 10 smartphones, including postpaid plans, to MMWGH personnel who will reach out to clients.
The tele-wellness service is open for Bataeños with zero knowledge about mental health support system and will cater to everyone as it promotes zero discrimination especially to healthcare workers.