Minalin Town Inaugurates New Dialysis Center to Serve Local Patients
The municipality of Minalin in Pampanga has officially opened a newly-constructed dialysis center, marking a significant step in improving healthcare access for residents. The inauguration ceremony took place on Thursday, January 29, with key officials in attendance to celebrate this vital community project.
Key Officials Lead the Inauguration Event
The event was spearheaded by a distinguished group of leaders, including Senator Lito Lapid, Vice Governor Dennis “Delta” Pineda, and Mayor Philip Naguit. They were joined by Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) Chief Operating Officer and former Pampanga governor Mark Lapid, fourth district Representative Anna York Bondoc, Board Member Kaye Naguit, and other local officials. Their presence underscored the collaborative effort behind this healthcare initiative.
Funding and Benefits for Kapampangan Communities
Senator Lito Lapid played a pivotal role by allocating P10-million for the construction of the dialysis center building. In his remarks, he emphasized his ongoing commitment to securing funding for programs that benefit his fellow Kapampangans. “Para po sa kapwa Kapampangan at Pilipino, patuloy po ang trabaho natin para makatulong. Kahit po parati nila akong sinasabihan na hindi nagsasalita, nandito naman po ‘yung mga proyektong naipapagawa natin,” Lapid stated, highlighting his dedication to tangible projects over mere words.
Strategic Location and Patient Impact
Located in Barangay Sta. Catalina, the facility is strategically positioned to serve patients who previously had to travel to neighboring towns for dialysis treatment. Mayor Philip Naguit explained that the center aims to ease the burden on dialysis patients by significantly reducing travel time and related expenses. This move is expected to enhance the quality of life for those requiring regular medical care.
Public-Private Partnership for Equipment Procurement
The municipal government of Minalin has entered into a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) with St. Marina Margarita Health Care Inc. to procure essential medical equipment. This collaboration includes the acquisition of 12 dialysis machines and other necessary tools, ensuring the center is well-equipped to meet patient needs efficiently.
Current Operations and Future Expansion
Currently, 15 patients are receiving treatment at the newly inaugurated center, demonstrating its immediate utility. According to Mayor Naguit, profiling and transfer processes are ongoing for an additional 46 patients to transition to this LGU-run facility. This phased approach ensures a smooth integration and expanded access to dialysis services in the region.
The inauguration of this dialysis center represents a critical advancement in local healthcare infrastructure, promising to alleviate the challenges faced by dialysis patients in Pampanga while fostering community well-being through sustained government and private sector support.
