Cancer hospital, patient group partner to promote universal healthcare, services
HEALTHWAY Cancer Care Hospital (HCCH), the country’s first dedicated cancer care facility, and the Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations (PAPO) have joined forces to advance initiatives aimed at promoting universal access to healthcare and allied services. eir collaborative efforts will prioritize and elevate patient care and health outcomes, specifically focusing on those with cancer.
Established by Ayala Healthcare Holdings Inc. (AC Health) and the Healthway Medical Network, HCCH’S vision is to provide accessible and quality cancer services to more Filipinos.
PAPO, a coalition of patient organizations, advocates for meaningful reform in three fundamental areas in order to improve the quality of healthcare in the country—respect for patient’s rights, universal healthcare, and participation in health policymaking, which includes cancer control policies.
Leaders from HCCH and PAPO signed the memorandum of agreement (MOA) on April 22, 2024 at HCCH in Arca South, Taguig City. Present during the MOA signing were Paolo Borromeo, AC Health President and CEO; Jimmy Ysmael, HCCH and Healthway Philippines Inc. President and CEO; Nona Ong, HCCH COO; Ruby Chiong, AC Health and HCCH Chief Finance Officer; Dr. Manuel Francisco T. Roxas, HCCH Medical Director, and Dr. Mari Joanne Joson, Head of Quality of Life Department of HCCH.
Representing PAPO were Karen Alparce-villanueva, PAPO President; Fatima Garcia-lorenzo, Co-founder and Member of the Board of Advisors; Marimel Lamsin, Board Treasurer, and Amanda Bonife, Member of the Board of Trustees.
“PAPO is pleased to partner with Healthway Cancer Care Hospital, the first of its kind in the Philippines and which
aims to elevate cancer care for Filipino patients. Our partnership is more than just about treatment but includes the entire continuum of care—from prevention through disease awareness and health literacy, to diagnostics and screening, to treatment, recovery and quality of life care,” said Villanueva.
She added that PAPO supports HCCH’S desire to offer the most affordable rates in order to ease the out-ofpocket expenses of patients.
“rough this partnership, we aim to elevate patient-centered care and support for cancer patients and their families; forge a stronger alliance between patient organizations and healthcare providers to tackle cancer challenges; empower the public with increased awareness and knowledge about cancer prevention, treatment, and support, and advocate for a more supportive policy landscape that prioritizes cancer care and patient rights in the Philippines,” said Dr. Roxas.
e HCCH and PAPO partnership will focus on four key areas: Comprehensive Cancer Care Services, Hospice and Palliative Care, Patient Advocacy Groups, and Health Literacy and Patient Safety.
“Under Comprehensive Cancer Care Services, we will explore joint initiatives
aimed at cancer prevention, detection, treatment, and survivorship support,” added Dr. Roxas.
e partnership likewise entails collaboration on initiatives for the care and treatment of multiple myeloma, lung, and liver cancers, as these are priority areas for PAPO in supporting and finding funding for patients in need.
HCCH and PAPO have also committed to work together in promoting interdisciplinary approaches to hospice and palliative care, incorporating best practices, and ensuring access to these services for all eligible patients.
Putting Patients First, Care Beyond Cure
“WE at HCCH recognize that the patient’s voice is a powerful agent of change and healing. Therefore, we empower our patients to actively participate in decision-making regarding their care,” said Dr. Joson.
Dr. Roxas likewise emphasized the importance of patient organizations championing patient rights. ese organizations ensure patients’ voices are heard and advocate for better disease management.
With this partnership, HCCH and PAPO seek to empower and support patient
advocacy groups in their efforts to raise awareness, influence policy changes, and ultimately, enhance the patient experience across healthcare settings.
“We appreciate that Healthway Cancer Care Hospital is offering a sanctuary for patient advocacy groups so that we can have a stronger voice in helping shape healthcare policies,” said Villanueva.
Recognizing the critical role of health literacy in empowering and safeguarding patients, both parties will prioritize developing and disseminating educational materials and programs to improve health literacy for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers.
HCCH, the first comprehensive cancer care hospital in the Philippines, was inaugurated on November 24, 2023, in the presence of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. Located in Arca South, Taguig City, the 100-bed hospital is now operational, providing patients with comprehensive care throughout their cancer journey, from screening and diagnostics to treatment.
For more information, visit https://healthwaymedicalnetwork.com.ph/ or head to Facebook for updates and announcements at https://www.facebook.com/healthwaycancercare/