As part of its efforts to enhance women’s healthcare access, the provincial government recently conducted the second phase of its OB-Gyne Surgical Mission from September 15th to 17th, 2023. This crucial initiative is a key component of Governor Hon. Nino Sotero L. Uy, Jr.’s agenda in his first 100 days in office, underscoring his unwavering commitment to women’s reproductive health.
During the second phase of the OB-Gyne Surgical Mission, the surgical team provided their essential services to 22 women, with most of them coming from the municipalities of Baganga, Boston, and Cateel (BBC). The mission employed the Primary Care Provider Network (PCPN) approach, which aimed to ensure that women from all corners of the province could access quality and essential healthcare services. This approach has been effective in promoting healthcare access and improving the health outcomes of women in the province.
The surgical procedures performed during this phase include myomectomy, total abdominal hysterectomy bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (TAHBSO), and other critical interventions.
The successful implementation of this crucial program was made possible through the unwavering collaboration between the Provincial Health Office, the Brokenshire Medical Center, and the Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center (DOPMC). Their steadfast partnership and dedication to improving women’s healthcare access have greatly contributed to the success of the OB-Gyne Surgical Mission.
Governor Uy, in his initial months in office, has made women’s healthcare a central pillar of his administration’s priorities. His administration views this ongoing initiative as a significant stride toward advancing women’s access to essential healthcare services. These concerted efforts are designed to empower women to lead healthier lives and assume more active roles within their communities and society as a whole.
Provincial Health Officer II and the concurrent DOPMC Chief of Hospital Dr. Reden V. Bersaldo, who took on the key role in orchestrating the coordination process, expressed his gratefulness to Governor Uy and all the partners who made the mission possible.
The collaboration with the Brokenshire Medical Center headed by Dr. Darlene Estuart assumed particular significance, as the institution’s medical residents and expert consultants played an important role in conducting these intricate surgeries. Furthermore, it provided a valuable opportunity for these medical professionals to gain practical experience as part of their OB-Gyne residency training program. By Rez Pann | Photos by JB Rain