Manila: Children with developmental disabilities in the Bicol Region now have better access to specialized healthcare with the opening of the Developmental Care and Support Services (DS) Hub at the Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center (BRHMC) in Daraga, Albay on Tuesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, BRHMC Medical Specialist IV Dr. Mariegella Christie Ciocson stated that the hub strengthens existing pediatric services by integrating developmental and behavioral care into one facility, making specialized services more accessible to children and their families. "Majority of the services are already being given by the Department of Pediatrics, but the additional services now include developmental and behavioral care," she mentioned in an interview.
Ciocson highlighted that the BRHMC is working towards securing PhilHealth accreditation for the facility to ensure sustainability and reduce the financial burden on families. She emphasized the importance of collaboration among government agencies, healthcare providers, civil society organizations, and child advocates to sustain the initiative. "If we move together, we will move heaven and earth for the children," she added.
Patients may either walk in or be referred by primary healthcare providers like AKTIBU before undergoing triage at the Department of Pediatrics. Those requiring specialized developmental services will then be referred to the DS Hub. Developmental pediatrician Dr. Alexis Reyes explained that the center offers more than developmental assessments, indicating that early diagnosis must be accompanied by intervention, parent education, and continuous support. "It's not really just the service of assessment because assessment is only the first part. We need programs to enhance children's capabilities, ensure interventions are appropriate, and help parents understand their children's condition," Reyes said.
The project is a collaboration among BRHMC, the NORFIL Foundation, and Liliane Fonds, with the hope that local government units and communities will help strengthen an integrated referral and support system for children with developmental disabilities.
