Mapandan: The Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Services (BUCAS) Center in Mapandan, the first of its kind in Pangasinan, is now offering free urgent care medical services to residents of the province. This facility, managed by the Region 1 Medical Center (R1MC), aims to provide essential healthcare services, including medical consultations, dental services, X-rays, laboratory testing, and ambulatory surgical services at no cost to patients.

According to Philippines News Agency, Dr. Rheuel Bobis from the Department of Health (DOH) 1 (Ilocos Region) highlighted that patients can benefit from the center's services through the zero balance billing policy. Similar centers are also operational in La Union and Ilocos Norte, contributing to the region's healthcare infrastructure. Although the BUCAS Center was inaugurated last year, the full installation of medical equipment and necessary permits took some time.

The BUCAS Center's primary objective is to manage non-life-threatening yet urgent medical conditions. It aims to provide timely consultations, minor procedures, and laboratory services, thus helping to decongest hospitals while ensuring quality treatment. DOH-1 Director Paula Paz Sydiongco emphasized the center's role in bringing healthcare closer and making it accessible and free.

R1MC Medical Center Chief Rolando Mejia reiterated the center's commitment to removing financial barriers to healthcare. He assured residents that all services at the BUCAS Center are completely free, underscoring that financial concerns should not delay treatment.

The facility, which officially opened its doors on February 28, aims to alleviate the pressure on tertiary hospitals like R1MC by efficiently managing walk-in urgent cases at the community level. Residents from Mapandan and nearby areas, such as Manaoag, Urdaneta City, Sta. Barbara, and Calasiao, can now access quality urgent care services close to home without the burden of travel or expenses.