Advancing Universal Health Care in Samar: A Transformative Approach

Executive Session for Governor Sharee Ann Tan of Samar

During the Executive Session for Governors under the Provincial Leadership Development Program Module 3 last September 23-25, 2024, Governor Sharee Ann Tan shared how the Province of Samar is spearheading efforts to deliver equitable and effective healthcare through their accelerated implementation of the Universal Health Care (UHC) Law. At the heart of this initiative is the establishment of a Province-Wide Health System (PWHS) and a Health Care Provider Network (HCPN), designed to strengthen primary care and ensure seamless referral systems across various health facilities.

Key Strategies for Health System Strengthening

The UHC initiative in Samar adopts a two-pronged strategy—preventive and curative—focused on improving the health outcomes of its population, especially in underserved areas. This involves:

1. Strengthening Primary Health Care: Investments in Barangay Health Stations (BHS) and the augmentation of human resources in health ensure that primary care services are accessible at the community level. These efforts are bolstered by bloodletting programs and the re-engineering of personnel to address the immediate healthcare needs.
2. Upgrading Hospital Services: Samar is upgrading its healthcare infrastructure, with a focus on improving hospital facilities and services, particularly in rural areas. Through policies like the No Balance Billing (NBB), the province aims to eliminate financial barriers to healthcare. The expansion of health services includes infrastructure improvements, higher staff salaries, and enhanced benefits to attract and retain healthcare professionals.

Addressing Youth Health Challenges

One of the standout features of the UHC initiative in Samar is its focus on adolescent health. Programs like the ‘Purple Desk’ initiative provide critical mental health support to young people in schools, reaching over 18,000 adolescents. Furthermore, reproductive health services are being enhanced to address rising concerns about adolescent pregnancy, with dedicated programs aimed at improving youth awareness and access to healthcare.

Tackling Infrastructure and Access Barriers

The initiative also focuses on improving access to healthcare in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA). The lack of road and internet connectivity poses significant challenges in these regions, which the UHC program seeks to overcome through improved road networks, telemedicine, and satellite clinics.

Leadership and Governance in Health

The success of the UHC implementation in Samar is driven by strong leadership and governance. The initiative emphasizes unified health governance, strategic planning, and sound financial management. By opening Special Health Fund (SHF) accounts, expanding Provincial Health Board membership, and developing technical guidelines for procurement and supply chain management, Samar is laying the groundwork for a sustainable and resilient health system.

The Road Ahead

While the province has made significant strides, challenges remain in fully integrating health systems and ensuring functional health facilities in strategic areas. Continued focus on leadership development, investment in health infrastructure, and performance monitoring will be crucial in achieving the goals of UHC. Through these transformative initiatives, Samar is on its way to providing better health outcomes and a healthier future for all Samarnons.