Residents here have gained access to free healthcare services through PhilHealth’s Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP), an initiative that brings essential medical services closer to communities and improves access to quality healthcare.
In one of the program services, at least 50 pre-registered women availed of free Pap smear assistance on Wednesday, in time for the Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB-GYN) Day celebration, which forms part of the Laoag City General Hospital’s (LCGH) 15th anniversary.
From July 1 to 3, the LCGH will offer a range of free services for both male and female PhilHealth members, including medical consultations, dental assessments, basic laboratory tests, blood pressure and blood sugar screenings, health education, and assistance with PhilHealth membership and benefit inquiries.
As the free Pap smear services had accommodated 50 women, internal medicine and pediatric consultations will also be free for the first 50 registrants on Thursday and Friday.
Before the Pap smear procedure, Dr. Ernalyn Joy Endaya-Yabes provided counseling on cervical cancer prevention, the importance of regular medical checkups, and vaccination against human papillomavirus.
During a brief program, PhilHealth worker John Patrick Raynon said the YAKAP program reflects PhilHealth’s commitment to ensuring that Filipinos, particularly those in underserved communities, can access healthcare services without unnecessary financial barriers.
He underscored that preventive care and early diagnosis are vital to improving health outcomes and reducing the burden of disease.
Beneficiaries such as Christine Dureza expressed appreciation for the initiative, noting that the free services enabled her to receive medical attention and learn more about the health benefits available through PhilHealth.
“I read a post on social media about the free health services, and I registered myself immediately because it’s expensive when you visit a doctor,” she said.
Dr. Yolanda De Silva, head of LCGH, encouraged residents to make full use of their PhilHealth benefits and to continue seeking preventive healthcare services to maintain good health.
She urged participants at the OB-GYN Day to take advantage of available screening services and to seek medical advice if they experience unusual symptoms.
Aside from the free health services, the LCGH has also set up a bazaar in front of the hospital until July 4 to support micro, small and medium enterprise owners in promoting their products. (PNA)
