CALABARZON HOSPITALS RECEIVES AMBULANCES FROM DOH

THE Department of Health (DOH) – CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, Quezon) distributed the first batch of land ambulances to nine various hospitals in the region to augment the much-needed COVID-19 response and other emergency situations.

“These emergency vehicles will be used in responding to the present pandemic, in preparation of a surge or second wave of the virus, preparing for the new normal, preparing for the Balik-Probinsya program and preparing for the next epidemic/pandemic”, Regional Director Eduardo C. Janairo stated.

A total of 98 ambulances were procured by the regional office under the Health Facility Enhancement Program (HFEP) which aims for the improvement of health facilities and special service delivery units in rural areas.

Among the recipients of the first tranche of brand new ambulances are Imus District Hospital in Cavite; San Pedro District Hospital and Sta. Rosa Community Hospital in Laguna; Don Manuel Lopez Memorial District Hospital and Malainin Barangay Health Station in Batangas; Antipolo Hospital System IV (Mambugan) and Rodriguez Rural Health Unit 2 in Rizal; and Bondoc Peninsula District Hospital and San Narciso Municipal Hospital in Quezon.

“These will be distributed to priority areas in need of emergency vehicles. Kasama na dito ang pagbibigay ng training sa mga personnel na mag-operate at magha-handle sa mga ambulansya.”

“Importante na mayroon silang proper knowledge sa essential life support gaya ng cardiopulmonary resuscitation o CPR”.

“An ambulance driver must be able to travel in any given traffic situations with caution and readiness and without risking the safety of the public or the patient. They should also ensure that the vehicle is sufficiently fueled and complete with the necessary medical supplies,” he emphasized.

Janairo also reminded hospital officials to use the ambulances as it is intended – to transport sick or injured patients requiring immediate medical treatment. “Huwag natin itong gawing service ng opisina o personal na sasakyan. Iwasan din natin na magpabayad o maningil ng panggasolina sa paggamit ng mga pasyente ng ambulansya. These actions are contrary to law and public policy.”

The land ambulances will augment the much-needed COVID-19 response and other emergency situations. The hospitals also received LED TV sets with flash drive containing COVID-19 IEC (Information, Education and Communication) materials to be used in the information dissemination campaign.