PRC most reliable, dependable ally in ensuring public health
Health Secretary Francisco Duque III lauded the Philippine Red Cross (PRC)’s commitment to mitigate dengue cases and to ensure the public’s health in times of disasters and emergencies.
Duque, who served as the keynote speaker during the 32nd Biennial National Convention (BNC) last April 12 to 13, said the PRC upholds excellence, integrity and compassion that are crucial in ensuring the health of Filipinos.
During the event, the Department of Health (DOH) and PRC, led by chairman Richard Gordon and secretary general Oscar Palabyab, signed a memorandum of agreement to support the DOH’s public health efforts during disasters, emergencies, and mass casualty incidents by deploying its emergency medical tents, which will be manned by volunteer doctors, nurses and health staff.
PRC’s emergency medical units (EMU) are capable of delivering basic and advanced medical services.
The EMU Type 1, also known as the Basic Health Care Unit, is a 10-bed outpatient setup designed to deliver basic healthcare services.
Meanwhile, the EMU Type 2 or the Emergency Field Hospital with Surgical Capacity can accommodate special services such as delivery, basic surgery, laboratory, and in-patient observation. The agreement also covers utilization of PRC’s ambulance services, as well as establishment of welfare desks to conduct psychosocial support, referral, and tracing.
PRC will also mobilize its water tankers, water treatment units, and water bladders to ensure adequate supply of clean water.
“DOH is a proud partner of PRC in ensuring that quality life-saving services are within the reach of Filipinos, especially the poor and the marginalized. PRC has proven yet again that they are one of the most reliable, if not the most reliable and dependable, allies of DOH,” Duque said. The agreement follows a 10-year-old Declaration of Partnership for the delivery of basic health care services during disasters.