By William Agda
PhilHealth conducted an orientation on the Health Care Provider Network (HCPN) for stakeholders in Surigao del Norte on November 25, 2024, at the Bayay Surigaonon in the Capitol Compound, Surigao City. The event aimed to strengthen the implementation of Universal Health Care (UHC) in the province.
The activity was led by Dr. Joel Arturo S. De Jesus from PhilHealth-RO 13, with participation from Claver Mayor Hon. Georgia Gokiangkee and Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Maria Isabel Bertulfo-Makinano. Discussions centered on expanding primary care networks through the Special Health Fund (SHF) and adhering to PhilHealth Circular No. 2023-0008.
Currently, four sandbox Primary Care Provider Networks (PCPNs) are implementing the Konsulta Primary Care Provider Network. The contracts for these networks have been extended until December 31, 2024, under PhilHealth Board Resolution No. 2922.
Dr. De Jesus emphasized the importance of stakeholder collaboration in improving health services in the region, while Mayor Gokiangkee called for stronger cooperation between leaders and healthcare workers to ensure the success of UHC programs.