Apayao: The opening of a dialysis center at the Rural Health Unit (RHU) in the municipality of Conner in Apayao province is easing the burden of patients, now spared from traveling to the Cagayan Valley region for their regular treatment sessions.

According to Philippines News Agency, the new facility, located at the Conner District Hospital, was launched on May 29 and officially opened its doors to the public on June 16. It is equipped with 15 dialysis machines and managed by trained personnel who serve patients from Conner and neighboring municipalities.

Before the center's opening, patients had to travel to either Tuguegarao City or Tabuk City in Kalinga for dialysis sessions, both located several hours away from Conner. The new center offers much-needed relief to those requiring regular treatment.

The Conner center is the third dialysis facility in Apayao funded under the Department of Health's (DOH) Hospital Facility Enhancement Program. This program includes essential services, medical equipment, and personnel, aiming to provide specialized healthcare services to remote communities.

Dr. Ferdinand Benbenen, director of the DOH - Cordillera, emphasized the importance of bringing government healthcare services closer to people in distant communities, especially those in need of specialized medical attention typically found in urban areas.