SM Foundation revitalizes health center to serve geographically isolated communities in South Cotabato

THE Philippines, a nation of over 7,100 widely separated islands, boasts a uniquely irregular configuration that captivates with its natural beauty. However, this distinctive archipelagic structure presents challenges for Filipinos, particularly those residing in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDA). These remote communities often struggle to access essential services with health care being a critical concern.According to 2019 data from the Department of Health (DoH), there are more than 10,800 GIDAs in the country many of which struggle to access basic health care due to limited infrastructure and remoteness. Through SM Foundation’s 207th rehabilitation project, health care is within reach for communities from geographically challenged areas. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO A game changer for Indigenous communities, the center also features eco-friendly innovations, including eco-conscious appliances, air-cleaning paints, locally sourced plants and a rainwater catchment system. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Shown in the photo are SM Foundation Executive Director for Health and Medical Programs Connie Angeles (3rd from left) with Municipal IP mandatory representative Jerome Ante (4th from left) and Polomolok municipal tribal chieftain Danny Sumali (5th from left) with the rest of the Polomolok East Community Clinic (PECC) community during the turnover ceremony of the PECC. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO With patient comfort and health worker’s ease as key considerations in the renovation, the SM Foundation refurbishes vibrant reception and admission areas in Polomolok East Community Clinic. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Embracing digital transformation, SM DigiKonsulta is launched for teleconsultations and digitalization of patient records. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Several of these areas are served by the Polomolok East Community Clinic (PECC). The PECC caters to nearly 50,000 individuals, predominantly from GIDAs.Jerome Ante, municipal indigenous people (IP) mandatory representative, notes that health care centers are often located kilometers away from these communities, making PECC's location strategic despite its limited services.Recognizing this need, the SM Foundation has focused on improving health care accessibility for vulnerable communities. The foundation has recently undertaken the revitalization of PECC to enhance its capabilities and service delivery. SM Foundation has repaired the dilapidated structure and optimized the layout to enhance efficiency and prioritize patient and health care worker comfort."This revitalized health center is a game changer for our indigenous communities," Ante says. "With its strategic location and expanded services, it will significantly improve the health and well-being of our people. Health care will be more accessible for us." The renovated facility now includes areas for specialized programs such as animal bite and treatment, tuberculosis – directly observed treatment short course, nebulization, counseling and family planning. To support health care workers in their roles, the project has provided an enhanced dental clinic, operation room, conference room, physicians' room and persons-with-disability-friendly restrooms.Patient comfort and health worker's ease have been a key consideration in the renovation. New reception and admission areas, a mobile play cabinet, Felicidad T. Sy areas for the elderly and children and a secure breastfeeding room have been added to improve the patient experience. A dedicated pantry and records rooms have also been included to ensure better management of resources and information.In collaboration with the Mahintana Foundation, a newly renovated pharmacy will provide the community with a reliable source of medicines. The center also features eco-friendly innovations, including eco-conscious appliances, air-cleaning paints, locally sourced plants and a rainwater catchment system.Embracing digital transformation, SM DigiKonsulta has been launched for teleconsultations and digitalization of patient records. These improvements aim to bring PECC into compliance with the licensing and accreditation requirements of the DoH and The Philippine Health Insurance Corp, ensuring sustainable and quality health care services for the community.Through SM Foundation's 207th rehabilitation project, health care is within reach for communities from geographically challenged areas."We rarely receive help before. Now, this rehabilitated center will be a lot of help to us IPs, especially to our health," Polomolok municipal tribal chieftain Danny Sumali says.To date, the SM Foundation has refurbished over 200 centers, bringing health care services closer to about seven million patients.