Healthcare accessibility bills hurdle second reading in Senate

Several local hospital bills to improve healthcare accessibility in key localities were approved by the Senate on second reading, said Senator Christopher Go.

The approvals focus on upgrading and establishing healthcare facilities to better meet local needs.

Go, Senate committee on health chairperson, is the primary author of these bills.

As these bills move towards their third and final reading, Go calls for continued support from his colleagues.

“It is our duty as legislators to enact measures that would help address the lack of appropriate facilities and equipment in our government hospitals most especially in these crucial times.”

The approved bills, each targeting specific needs within their localities, include:

– House Bill No. 8484, introduced by Reps. Ferdinand Alexander Marcos, Yedda Marie Romualdez Atayde, and Sharee Ann Tan-Tambut aim to upgrade the Bangui District Hospital in Ilocos Norte to a Level II District Hospital, ensuring enhanced medical services in the northern region.

– House Bill No. 8491, introduced by Rep. Lucille Nava, proposes converting the Dr. Catalino Gallego Nava Provincial Hospital in Guimaras into a Level II Hospital. This upgrade will significantly improve healthcare delivery in this island province.

– House Bill No. 8492, introduced by Rep. Alfredo Benitez, seeks to establish the Victorias City General Hospital in Negros Occidental, creating a vital healthcare institution in this growing urban area.

– House Bill No. 8494, introduced by Reps. Kristine Alexie Tutor, Edgar Mary Sarmiento, and Eric Olivarez plan to increase the bed capacity of the Teodoro B. Galagar District Hospital in Bohol from 75 to 100 beds, addressing the urgent need for more hospital beds in the region.

– House Bill No. 8970, also introduced by Reps. Kristine Alexie Tutor, Edgar Mary Sarmiento, and Eric Olivarez focus on expanding the Cong. Simeon G. Toribio Memorial Hospital in Bohol from 40 to 75 beds, helping to alleviate the strain on this critical facility.

– House Bill No. 9556, introduced by Rep. Florida Robes, amends Republic Act No. 11272, changing the location of the planned St. Bernadette Children and Maternity Hospital in San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan, optimizing its impact on the local community.