Surigao Sur pushes for stronger network of healthcare providers
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur (PIA) — The government leaders, health professionals, and policymakers in the province of Surigao del Sur recently convened at the Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center (ASTMMC) in Tandag City to advance efforts toward a more connected and patient-centered healthcare system through the proposed establishment of a Health Care Provider Network (HCPN).
The initiative supported the national government’s Universal Health Care agenda to bring quality healthcare services to every Filipino, especially those in underserved communities.
As support to the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for an inclusive healthcare system across the country, it addresses the daily challenge of many families in remote and geographically isolated communities in the province as patients often travel long distances, transfer from one facility to another, and undergo repeated consultations before receiving proper medical attention, resulting in additional expenses and delayed treatment.
The meeting, held on April 30, was led by the Multi-Sectoral Governance Council (MSGC), chaired by 1st District Congressional Representative Romeo S. Momo Sr., bringing together stakeholders from various sectors to discuss ways to make healthcare services more connected, accessible, and patient-centered.
During the meeting, Maricar O. Jumamil, RN, senior health program officer of the Department of Health Center for Health Development (DOH-CHD) Caraga, presented the province’s progress in implementing the Universal Health Care (UHC).
She said that while healthcare facilities and systems are already operating in the province, many services remain disconnected from one another. Rural health units, hospitals, and specialized care facilities often work separately. This system is causing delays in referrals, hospital overcrowding, and difficulties for patients seeking continuous treatment.
Health officials emphasized that the Health Care Provider Network will help address these gaps by linking healthcare facilities into one coordinated system. Under the proposed network, primary care facilities will serve as the first contact for patients, while hospitals and specialists will handle cases requiring advanced treatment.
The system also aims to improve patient referrals and information sharing among healthcare facilities, ensuring that patients receive proper care without unnecessary delays or repeated procedures.
Health experts said that through an integrated network, patients in far-flung barangays will have clearer access to medical services, reducing travel burdens and out-of-pocket expenses.
As part of the discussion, Dr. Jacqueline Frances Momville, provincial health officer II from Agusan del Sur, shared experiences in developing the province’s healthcare provider network.
She highlighted the importance of cooperation among local government units, healthcare providers, and institutions for the success of integration. She also acknowledged that challenges, such as limited resources and system adjustments, are part of the process. These can be addressed through strong commitment and collaboration.
The sharing of Agusan del Sur’s experience gave Surigao del Sur leaders practical insights and a working model that may guide the province in building its own integrated healthcare system.
Meanwhile, Dr. Janice V. Pagaran-Alcordo, chief of the Adela Serra Ty Memorial Medical Center (ASTMMC), underscored the importance of compassionate and people-centered healthcare services. She emphasized that healthcare reform goes beyond improving systems and facilities, and must also ensure that patients are guided, respected, and receive proper care throughout their medical journey.
For many residents, especially those living in geographically isolated areas, the proposed healthcare network may bring significant improvements. Among the expected benefits are shorter patient waiting and referral times, decongested hospitals, lower medical expenses, stronger emergency response systems, and better continuous care for patients with long-term illnesses.
Health officials acknowledged that building an integrated healthcare system will require continuous coordination, funding support, policy alignment, and cooperation among stakeholders. However, they expressed optimism that the province is moving toward a more efficient and connected healthcare system.
The meeting also showed government commitment to strengthen public health services and ensure that no Surigaonon is left behind in accessing healthcare.
With the planned establishment of the Health Care Provider Network, Surigao del Sur is taking a major step toward achieving a more responsive, accessible, and patient-centered healthcare system aligned with the goals of Universal Health Care and the national development agenda. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur)
