CEBU CITY—A shortage of medical personnel, medicine supplies, and poorly maintained facilities are among the pressing issues affecting Cebu Province’s healthcare system. This was revealed following a series of inspections and consultations in early July, led by Cebu Provincial Public Health Consultant Dr. Nikki Catalan.
District hospitals in disrepair and insufficient medicine for pregnant women and patients with chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes were among the top concerns. A call for immediate intervention was made, particularly for a comprehensive program addressing chronic kidney disease.
Cebu Governor Gwen Baricuatro expressed strong support for the province’s medical workforce and vowed to deploy more healthcare staff to district hospitals, the provincial hospital, and rural health units. She emphasized that upgrading the health system is one of her administration’s top priorities.
Among the urgent cases discovered was the damaged flooring in Minglanilla District Hospital’s dietary section, which posed hygiene and safety risks. The governor ordered its immediate repair, and 80 percent of the work has already been completed.
To bolster staffing, Baricuatro approved the hiring of 78 doctors. The Capitol has since received over 1,800 applications for various healthcare positions, including nurses, medical technologists, and dentists. Screening is underway to ensure better delivery of health services to the public.
