By Xander Ledesma
The Mabinay Dialysis Center has officially opened, marking a significant moment in the healthcare landscape of the province. Located in Barangay Poblacion, Mabinay, this center aims to provide essential healthcare services to local residents and those from nearby areas, particularly those facing kidney-related health issues.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by several notable figures, including Governor Chaco Sagarbarria, Congressman Chiquiting Sagarbarria, and Mabinay Mayor Ernie Uy. Their presence highlighted the collaboration between the provincial government and Prime Dialysis Center, which operates the new facility. This partnership is aimed at bringing advanced healthcare closer to the communities in Negros Oriental.
The establishment of the Mabinay Dialysis Center is a significant step in addressing the healthcare needs of Negros Oriental, especially concerning kidney health. Chronic kidney diseases, including kidney failure, have become a rising concern in the region due to factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and lifestyle-related issues.
Before the opening of this new dialysis center, residents of Mabinay and its neighboring areas often had to travel long distances to receive dialysis treatments, facing both financial and logistical challenges. With the center now operational, these burdens have been alleviated, as it offers affordable and accessible dialysis services.
Governor Chaco Sagarbarria emphasized the importance of local healthcare infrastructure during the ceremony, reaffirming the provincial government’s commitment to improving healthcare access in rural areas.
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a growing health concern globally, and the Philippines is no exception. According to the Department of Health (DOH), CKD is one of the leading causes of mortality in the country, with many patients requiring dialysis treatment. Kidney disease often goes undiagnosed until it reaches an advanced stage, making early detection and access to regular treatments, such as dialysis, crucial for improving patients’ chances of survival.
In Negros Oriental, the demand for dialysis services has become increasingly urgent due to the rising prevalence of conditions like diabetes and hypertension—both major risk factors for kidney failure. The opening of the Mabinay Dialysis Center enhances local access to life-saving treatments, reducing the need for costly and time-consuming travel to distant healthcare facilities.
This new center aligns with the provincial government’s broader efforts to enhance healthcare infrastructure throughout Negros Oriental. The government has prioritized improving access to healthcare services in underserved areas, particularly in rural communities where resources and facilities are often lacking.
The Mabinay Dialysis Center is a collaborative effort between the provincial government and Prime Dialysis Center, a private healthcare provider specializing in renal care services. This project is part of a larger initiative to increase the availability of dialysis centers across Negros Oriental, responding to the growing demand for such services driven by the province’s aging population and rising rates of chronic diseases.
The partnership between the local government and Prime Dialysis Center reflects a growing trend in the Philippines, where public-private partnerships are being utilized to address gaps in the healthcare system. This approach enables more efficient resource use by leveraging public funds and private expertise to create sustainable healthcare solutions.
During the inauguration, Congressman Chiquiting Sagarbarria praised the project and emphasized that the dialysis center is not only a vital healthcare resource but also a prime example of how the government and private sector can collaborate to make a lasting impact on communities.