Baguio: The rollout of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp.'s (PhilHealth) Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) and the Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT) in the city is expected to boost healthcare services for residents, the city's Health Services Office (HSO) said on Tuesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, the City Health Officer, emphasized the symbolic nature of these programs, describing them as embodiments of compassion, hope, and unity. Starting this week, five district health centers in Baguio will begin implementing the YAKAP and GAMOT initiatives. These centers will offer consultations, cancer screening, 13 laboratory services, and free access to 75 basic medicines. The participating centers include Aurora Hill Super Health Center, Atab District Health Center, City Camp District Health Center, Irisan District Health Center, and Engineers Hill District Health Center.
Eleven additional district health centers are set to join once they complete their accreditation for these programs. Dr. Brillantes reiterated the city's commitment to health, underscoring the belief that health is wealth and expressing the desire for the community to remain healthy.
Dr. Dominga Gadgad, regional vice president of PhilHealth Cordillera, highlighted that these programs reflect a responsive healthcare system that is accessible, continuous, and centered on the needs of the people. Department of Health-Cordillera regional director Dr. Amelita Pangilinan also expressed support for the initiative, noting its significance in strengthening healthcare access in Baguio City.
By integrating YAKAP and GAMOT into DOH-licensed facilities, the initiative enhances the Primary Care Provider network in Baguio, ensuring that healthcare begins at the primary level. YAKAP assists families in obtaining consultations, selected laboratory services, screening, and guidance at the primary care level, while GAMOT ensures continuity of treatment by improving access to essential medicines.
