5 Latest Health News in the Philippines You Need to Know
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to the healthcare industry across the world. In the Philippines, the government, NGOs, and healthcare workers have all worked tirelessly to ensure that the citizens stay safe and healthy. Here are five latest health news in the Philippines you need to know.
1. Philippines ranks 6th in the world in COVID-19 vaccination
As of August 2021, the Philippines has administered over 34 million doses of COVID-19 vaccines, ranking sixth in the world for total doses given. The government aims to vaccinate 70 million Filipinos by the end of the year, with the majority of the population receiving the two-dose Sinovac vaccine. The vaccination program has been a collaborative effort between the government, private sector, and NGOs. With the increasing number of vaccine doses administered, the Philippines is on track to achieve herd immunity in the next few months.
2. Mental health services expand in the country
The pandemic has brought not only physical health concerns but also mental health concerns for many individuals. The Philippines has taken steps to address this by expanding mental health services across the country. The government has allocated funds to build more mental health facilities and has also launched a 24/7 national mental health hotline for those who need immediate assistance. Private organizations and NGOs have also partnered with the government to provide free counseling services to those in need.
3. The fight against Dengue continues
Dengue fever has been a persistent issue in the Philippines, with cases increasing during the rainy season. The Department of Health has been implementing various measures to combat the disease, including the distribution of insecticides, fogging, and clean-up drives. One innovative approach has been the use of Ovicidal/Larvicidal Traps, which kill mosquito larvae before they can develop into adult mosquitoes. The government also encourages the public to practice the “four O’clock habit” – searching for and eliminating mosquito breeding sites at 4 p.m. daily.
4. Health monitoring apps gain popularity
As pandemic restrictions remain in place, many Filipinos have turned to health monitoring apps to track their symptoms. These apps enable individuals to monitor their vitals such as heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation levels. They also provide self-assessments for COVID-19 symptoms, provide reminders on medication schedules, and offer teleconsultation services with doctors. Health monitoring apps have been seen as an effective way to provide healthcare remotely, particularly during the pandemic.
5. Smart hospitals with telemedicine capabilities emerge
Smart hospitals with telemedicine capabilities have emerged in the Philippines, promising to provide more accessible and affordable healthcare services. These hospitals are equipped with advanced technologies such as teleconsultation, electronic health records, and AI-powered diagnostic tools. They also offer 24/7 online access to doctors, enabling patients to receive immediate medical advice and consultation without leaving their homes. Smart hospitals with telemedicine capabilities have the potential to revolutionize healthcare in the Philippines, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare is limited.
In conclusion, the Philippines has made significant strides in the healthcare industry, especially during the pandemic. From expanding mental health services to smart hospitals with telemedicine capabilities, the country’s efforts have managed to provide accessible and affordable healthcare to Filipinos across the country. With the continuous hard work and effort of the government, healthcare workers, and private organizations, the future of healthcare in the Philippines looks bright.
