Press Release - Bong Go reminds DOH: No patient should be turned away at Malasakit Centers as typhoon season brings added health risks

As the country is currently affected by the typhoon season, Senator Christopher "Bong" Go once again highlighted the vital role of Malasakit Centers in ensuring that no Filipino is denied access to essential healthcare services, particularly during disasters. This reminder comes as recent tropical storms, including Tropical Storm Enteng, have brought heavy rains and widespread flooding to various regions, raising concerns about healthcare accessibility.

He particularly emphasized that hospitals, in coordination with the Department of Health (DOH), should not turn away any patient, especially in times of crisis.

"In line with the directive of DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa, all Malasakit Centers must provide services to every patient who seeks assistance, especially the poor and disaster victims. Wala pong dapat matanggihan, lalo na 'yung mga kababayan nating hirap sa buhay at apektado ng sakuna," Go stated.

Go was referring to DOH Department Memorandum 2023-0235, which directs hospitals to cater to patients in Malasakit Centers without discrimination, ensuring that no one is turned away due to financial constraints.

He expressed concern that many Filipinos, particularly in disaster-stricken areas, often hesitate to seek medical treatment due to fear of hospital bills.

"Alam ko po ang hirap ng buhay, lalo na sa mga panahon ng sakuna. Kaya't siguradohin po nating walang uuwi na hindi natulungan ng Malasakit Center. Lahat ay dapat mabigyan ng tamang serbisyo, lalo na ang mga kababayan nating hirap sa buhay," Go added.

Go, who championed the establishment of Malasakit Centers, reiterated his long-standing advocacy for universal healthcare access. The centers, located in public hospitals nationwide, streamline the process for indigent patients to receive medical and financial assistance from various government agencies, including PhilHealth, DOH, and DSWD.

Go is the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11463, or the Malasakit Centers Act of 2019, which institutionalized the Malasakit Centers program.

As of now, 166 Malasakit Centers are operational across the country, poised to assist with patients' medical expenses. The DOH reports that the Malasakit Center