• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Negros Occidental Comprehensive Health Care Program (NOCHP) marked its 15th year on Tuesday (Oct. 28), serving 52,454 Negrense patients from January to September this year alone.
In his speech during the anniversary program held at Negros Residences in Bacolod City, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson reported that total availment as of September 2025 has reached P78.295 million, surpassing the P74.133,99 million recorded for the entire year of 2024, with only 6,885 served.
“It’s more of making the public aware that NOCHP is still there to help,” Lacson said on the drastic increase in the number of people availing of the NOCHP.
NOCHP is a priority program of the provincial government that seeks to provide comprehensive health care to Negrenses.
A health insurance entitles members and their qualified dependents to free outpatient care in participating government hospitals.
All NOCHP members, including provincial government employees, are entitled to a P5,000 yearly assistance for medication, laboratories, radiologic examinations, dental services, and medicines, among others.
Lacson said he expects an increase in the number of NOCHP beneficiaries in the years to come.
The NOCHP was started 15 years ago, by then Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. and former Third District Rep. Alfredo Abelardo Benitez, and implemented in the six districts of Negros Occidental.
“As we move forward, the challenge remains, the strengthening of the health systems, coverage expansion, and to continue the gap between need and access,” Lacson said. “Through the continued integration of NOCHP with our One Hospital Command, Digitalized Health and Emergency Management and other health initiatives, we aim to make our provincial health network more responsive, efficient and equitable.” | GB
