Lawmakers from both houses of Congress are collaborating with the Department of Health (DOH) and concerned local government units (LGUs) to build a total of 13 “super health centers” or SHCs in this province.

With the imminent opening of the first SHC in Calauan town, 12 more will be in the pipeline throughout the province, according to Senator Lawrence “Bong” Go.

Go took part in an inspection of the soon-to-open Calauan SHC on Sunday, accompanied by local officials.

He said the SHC initiative in this province “reflects a commitment to democratizing access to quality healthcare, particularly in remote areas.”

In an interview, Go said SHCs are set apart from the typical community health center in the number of medical services that they offer.

He said SHCs will be equipped with X-ray and ultrasound machines for its outpatient services.

These will also have birthing rooms, surgical units and isolation areas for patients who may be confined.

SHCs will also offer specialized services such as eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) care, oncology treatment, physical therapy and rehabilitation, and telemedicine services, while having in-house pharmacies.

Go, who is chair of the Senate committee on health, said securing funding for the construction of SHCs in Laguna represents a concerted effort by multiple government agencies.

“By bringing government healthcare closer to the people, we empower communities and promote health equity,” he said. (PNA)