Manila: Over 100 Universal Health Care (UHC) integration sites have become operational nationwide, showcasing substantial progress in implementing the UHC Law. In his address at the first National UHC Summit, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa highlighted that the number of UHC integration sites increased from 58 in 2020 to 104 this year, encompassing 87 percent of the targeted local government units.

According to Philippines News Agency, Herbosa urged local chief executives to play an active role as they are crucial in realizing UHC. The UHC integration sites aim to connect various health facilities into a coordinated network, facilitating faster and more affordable medical services for Filipinos. The expansion reflects local government units' growing commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery within communities.

Challenges persist, however, as only a third of local government units have fully organized health care provider networks, and less than 30 percent have achieved higher functional maturity. Significant gaps in health financing, service delivery, and governance remain, as emphasized by Herbosa.

He called on local chief executives to proactively implement UHC by organizing provider networks, prioritizing health in budgets, and institutionalizing health funds. Strengthening preventive care and support for the health workforce, along with ensuring equitable health financing, is crucial to shielding families from catastrophic medical expenses.

The initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to improve the national health system, ensuring quality healthcare is accessible to all Filipinos. The Department of Health commits to continuing technical assistance to local government units, aiming for full nationwide coverage in the future.