The convening of the Provincial Development Council under the new administration is a positive sign, signaling a commitment to a comprehensive approach to governance. It is particularly commendable that the council is prioritizing the major renovation of the Eastern Bicol Medical Center (EBMC). This focus on healthcare is a crucial step towards improving the welfare of the people of Catanduanes. The decision to realign existing projects and programs to fund this initiative demonstrates a clear understanding of the immediate needs of the community.
However, the success of this renovation goes beyond mere infrastructure upgrades. A 360-degree turnaround of the EBMC requires a fundamental shift in both its operational and administrative frameworks. The current practice of limiting outpatient consultations to just 20 per day is a disservice to the public and must be addressed. A more efficient system is needed to ensure that all residents seeking medical attention can be accommodated in a timely manner.
Perhaps the most critical aspect of this overhaul is the reorganization of the hospital’s leadership. The appointment of a specialized and competent hospital administrator and a medical director is paramount. The medical director should be focused on implementing measures to improve the quality of medical services, while the hospital administrator must be a business-minded individual with a strong grasp of financial management. This includes optimizing revenue generation and ensuring the judicious use of funds for the benefit of the patients. The claims department, as the lifeblood of the hospital’s finances, also needs to be a top priority. The reported delay in the return of casual employees, particularly those in critical positions like claims, could cripple the hospital’s financial health.
Furthermore, a critical review of the hospital’s manpower is essential. While the transition may have caused temporary disruptions, it is a perfect opportunity to reassess the workforce. An oversized staff, as suggested by the number of casuals, could be a financial burden. A more balanced approach is needed to ensure that the number of employees is commensurate with the hospital’s income, allowing it to become self-liquidating.
The current practice of acquiring high-priced medicine, despite having a captive clientele, is another area that needs immediate attention. This inefficiency not only impacts the hospital’s income but also burdens patients with high costs. A new administration can leverage its position to negotiate better prices and ensure a steady, affordable supply of medicines.
While the idea of reverting the management of EBMC to the Department of Health is a valid long-term consideration, it is crucial to first give the new provincial administration the opportunity to implement these reforms. With a determined governor at the helm, there is an expectation of a significant turnaround—a transition from a struggling institution to a high-performing, self-sufficient hospital that provides quality healthcare, not as a matter of political patronage, but as a fundamental service to the people. This is an opportunity to prove that local governance can rise to the challenge and make a lasting, positive impact on public health. | FB-EYE | Ferdie M. Brizo | Bicol Peryodiko weekly
