Deep-diving into Primary Healthcare Capacities within a Province-wide Health Network
Dr. Helena Alvior, Ms. Camille Samson, Ms. Rosario Dizon
This project aims to strengthen the Guimaras Unified Health Network (GUHN) by assessing primary healthcare facility (PCF) capacities, engaging key health system stakeholders, and prototyping a reimagined patient pathway to improve access and service delivery. The initiative focuses on increasing the utilization of and investment in primary care services for equitable healthcare in Guimaras.
The Deep-diving into Primary Healthcare Capacities within a Province-wide Health Network project is a 15-month initiative designed to enhance primary healthcare services in Guimaras, a fourth-income class island province in the Western Visayas Region. The project is aligned with the objectives of the Universal Health Care (UHC) Law and aims to build a more integrated, people-centered healthcare system.
Objectives:
Increase Awareness, Access, and Utilization – Conduct a facility and network assessment to identify gaps and opportunities in primary care services.
Facilitate Evidence-Based Solutions – Generate interventions that strengthen primary healthcare facilities and promote coordinated care pathways.
Enhance Stakeholder Engagement – Strengthen collaboration between province-based health leaders, managers, and community representatives.
Key Activities:
1. Primary Care Facility (PCF) Assessment: A province-wide analysis of healthcare service delivery, infrastructure, accreditation, and financing.
2. Stakeholder Engagement: Organizing a Project Core Team (PCT) and a Community Advisory Group to co-design solutions.
3. Prototyping a Reimagined Patient Pathway: Mapping existing patient experiences and designing a more efficient and responsive system for vulnerable populations.
4. Collaboration with the Provincial Health Board (PHB): Ensuring policy alignment and sustainability of interventions.
Expected Outcomes:
1. Improved primary healthcare service coverage and accessibility
2. Strengthened healthcare financing and resource allocation
3. Increased utilization of primary healthcare facilities
4. Enhanced community participation and feedback mechanisms
The Philippine Foundation for Equity in Health, Inc. (PFEH) is leading this initiative in partnership with the Provincial Health Office (PHO), the Provincial Department of Health Office (PDOHO), and various healthcare stakeholders. The project integrates human-centered design approaches to ensure responsive and sustainable health system improvements.
By leveraging evidence-based interventions and collaborative leadership, this project aims to foster a resilient, well-integrated primary healthcare system in Guimaras, ultimately contributing to the broader goals of universal health coverage and health equity in the Philippines.