Doha: The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has committed to providing full support for ailing overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in Qatar as it pushes for faster medical repatriation. The initiative is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to strengthen support to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) with medical conditions.
According to Philippines News Agency, the DMW stated that Undersecretary Jainal Rasul, Assistant Secretary Venecio Legaspi, and Qatar Labor Attach© Eduard Ferrer recently visited four ailing OFWs currently admitted at the Rumailah Hospital in Doha. These individuals are in need of urgent medical attention and repatriation. Among those visited was a female patient who suffered a severe stroke and has been confined to the hospital since May. Her sibling has already been repatriated, with preparations for her own repatriation underway.
During their visit, the DMW officials also held consultations with hospital staff and the Medical Repatriation Coordinator for Filipinos in Qatar, Alma Balanon, regarding the conditions and arrangements for patient transfers. Balanon highlighted the need for various forms of support, including visa processing and hospital acceptance in the Philippines, as crucial steps to ensure smooth transfers and continuity of care once patients are returned to their home country.
Ferrer emphasized the importance of complete documentation and a structured referral system to facilitate successful medical transfers. He also noted the high cost of medical evacuations and expensive medical care in Qatar, pointing out that a single stretcher repatriation can cost QAR 150,000, while weekly stabilization expenses in high-end facilities may reach up to QAR 60,000.
The DMW mentioned that the medical repatriation initiative in Qatar began in 2015. Balanon reported that the program has facilitated the return of 28 OFWs in 2024, with 11 cases, including one currently in process, recorded so far this year. A follow-up mission is scheduled for mid-August this year to monitor patients' reintegration and ensure sustained government support upon their return.
