The San Carlos City Health Office was evaluated by the Department of Health–Negros Island Region (DOH-NIR) Regulation, Licensing, and Enforcement Division June 24, as part of its bid to become a licensed primary care facility (PCF).
PCFs serve as the first point of contact for patients seeking medical attention, and offer a wide range of services, from health promotion and disease prevention to treatment, rehabilitation, and patient education.
DOH-NIR development management officer IV Rheale Jaudines said a facility must provide at least three mandatory services to qualify for PCF licensing: minor surgery, outpatient department, and population-based services, including surveillance, health promotion programs, and emergency response.
Jaudines added that other essential health services, such as laboratory testing, dental care, birthing, X-ray, and ambulance support—though not necessarily housed within the health office—can be accessed through an established memorandum of understanding with San Carlos City Hospital.
She also said that with a licensed PCF, residents can expect more accessible healthcare, including free or low-cost services, and that all patients will be profiled to facilitate access to these benefits, the city said.
The assessment team, led by DOH licensing officer II Gerald Escalera, Jaudines, City Health Officer Dr. Jabbel Jayawon, and other CHO staff, paid a courtesy call on Mayor Renato Gustilo before the evaluation.
Gustilo expressed optimism about the city’s chances of meeting licensing standards.
“We hope to pass the evaluation, but if not, we’ll work toward compliance and try again next year,” he said. ||
