PORAC – At least 900 indigent Kapampangans have recently received free medical check-ups and clinical procedures through a ‘Surgical Caravan’ at the Jose Songco Lapid District Hospital here.
The Surgical Caravan is an initiative of the Department to Health (DOH) in partnership with the provincial government of Pampanga to render health services to the poor.
Dubbed as “ToDOH Alaga, May Tsekap Na, May Operasyon pa”, DOH aims to provide operations, ranging from minor to major cases, absolutely at no cost to indigent patients in need of surgical procedures.
According to Provincial Health Officer (PHO) Marcelo Jaochico, the surgical caravan will move around the 11 district hospitals of the province to provide free medical services to all Kapampangans.
Jaochico mentioned the services provided by the surgical caravan includes surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, gynecology, ophthalmology and dermatology services all free of charge.
“Dito inaasahan natin walang gagastusin ang pasyente kahit singko, lahat libre dito,” Jaochico said.
He also stressed the need to offer free surgical operations to the poor as most of them chose to neglect their harsh condition since they lack the means to pay for their hospitalization.
All medical procedures including minor and major operations will be performed at the Jose B. Lingad Regional Memorial Hospital, Jaochico said noting that patients will be assisted and transported by an ambulance from the hospital.
Three dental buses and 11 dentists from the district hospital are likewise present to provide dental care and services.
Meanwhile, Chief of Hospital Dr. Larry M. Fernando took the opportunity to remind the Kapampangans in taking care of their health to help prevent the spread of any diseases.
The surgical caravan was first launched at the Escolastica Romero District Hospital (ERDH) in July 23 of this year. –Ma. Reina Len Luna/Pampanga PIO