UST Symposium Highlights Government Initiatives to Enhance Healthcare for Persons with Disabilities
A recent symposium held at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) focused on advancements in healthcare technology and government actions aimed at improving services for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in the Philippines. The event, organized by the UST Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, brought together experts from key government agencies, including the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), the Department of Health (DOH), and PhilHealth.
Key Initiatives and Discussions:
- Enhanced PWD Support Systems: The NCDA and DOH are collaborating to strengthen support systems and initiatives designed to improve the quality of life for PWDs.
- Ear and Hearing Health Programs: The DOH has launched specific programs, such as the Health and Wellness Program for PWDs, to promote ear and hearing health awareness and access to services.
- Expanded PhilHealth Benefits: PhilHealth has broadened its benefit packages related to ear and hearing health, with a focus on prioritizing children and indigent PWDs.
- Universal Health Care Implementation: The government’s implementation of the Universal Health Care Law ensures that all Filipinos are PhilHealth members, guaranteeing equal access to essential health benefits.
- PWD Registry and Data Management: The Philippine Registry for PWDs, which currently includes over 2.065 million registered individuals, is being utilized to enhance the delivery of targeted support and services.
- PWD ID Verification: Experts at the symposium emphasized the importance of verifying the legitimacy of PWD identification cards to safeguard access to benefits and prevent misuse.
Collaborative Partnerships:
The symposium was made possible through the collaborative efforts of:
- University of Santo Tomas (UST) Faculty of Medicine and Surgery
- National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA)
- Department of Health (DOH)
- Philippine General Hospital (PGH)
- PhilHealth
- Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG)
Government Commitment to Inclusive Healthcare:
The initiatives discussed at the symposium demonstrate the Philippine government’s commitment to providing inclusive and equitable healthcare services, particularly for vulnerable populations such as PWDs. By expanding benefit packages, strengthening support systems, and promoting awareness, the government aims to improve the overall well-being of Filipinos with disabilities.
The symposium, held on March 8th, served as a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration, reinforcing the government’s dedication to improving healthcare access for all Filipinos.
