GUIMARAS — Patients in Guimaras no longer have to endure long and costly trips to the city for dialysis following the official opening of the Hemodialysis Unit at the Guimaras Provincial Hospital, also known as Dr. Catalino Gallego Nava Medical Center (DCGNMC), on January 19.
The opening marks a major milestone in the province’s healthcare services, offering life-saving treatment closer to home for patients suffering from kidney disease.
For 23-year-old Louie from Barangay Salvacion, Nueva Valencia, the new facility has already made a life-changing difference. For more than a year, he traveled to Iloilo City three times a week to undergo dialysis. On Monday, he became the first patient to receive treatment at the newly opened DCGNMC Hemodialysis Unit.
“Dako gid ni nga bulig sa akon kay sa pamasahe pa lang daan, kag lapit pa sa amon,” Louie said, expressing relief over the reduced travel expenses and the convenience of receiving treatment within the island.
Provincial officials said the opening of the facility fulfills a long-held vision of making quality healthcare more accessible to Guimarasnons.
Governor Ma. Lucille L. Nava, MD, said the project aligns with the province’s Kabataan FIRST Agenda and the ongoing upgrading of medical facilities.
“In line with the Kabataan FIRST Agenda, the Dr. Catalino Gallego Nava Medical Center officially opened its Hemodialysis Center today, marking another milestone in its ongoing upgrading program. The initiative reflects the Provincial Government’s commitment to strengthening health facilities and achieving a more responsive and accessible health care system for Guimarasnons,” the governor said.
Congressman JC Rahman A. Nava, MD, emphasized that dialysis services at the center will be provided free of charge to Guimarasnons who need them.
The Hemodialysis Unit is initially equipped with 10 dialysis machines and can accommodate up to five patients per session. Dialysis sessions are scheduled every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
To avail of the service, patients may inquire directly at the DCGNMC Hemodialysis Unit for the list of requirements. Once completed and verified, patients will be scheduled and issued an admission slip.
On the scheduled day, patients are required to register at the Outpatient Department before proceeding to the Hemodialysis Unit. Only one companion or “bantay” is allowed during each session and will assist in processing necessary documents, including PhilHealth forms.
For succeeding sessions, stable patients may proceed directly to the Hemodialysis Unit on their assigned schedule, while those in unstable or emergency conditions must report immediately to the admitting section for urgent medical care./PN
