Children with developmental disabilities in the Bicol Region now have better access to specialized healthcare with the opening of the Developmental Care and Support Services (DS) Hub at the Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center (BRHMC) in Daraga, Albay on Tuesday.
BRHMC Medical Specialist IV Dr. Mariegella Christie Ciocson said the hub strengthens existing pediatric services by adding developmental and behavioral care under one facility, making specialized services more accessible to children and their families.
“Majority of the services are already being given by the Department of Pediatrics, but the additional services now include developmental and behavioral care,” she said in an interview.
Ciocson said the BRHMC is working toward securing PhilHealth accreditation for the facility to ensure sustainability and reduce the financial burden on families.
She emphasized that sustaining the initiative will require collaboration among government agencies, healthcare providers, civil society organizations, and child advocates.
“If we move together, we will move heaven and earth for the children,” she added.
Patients may either walk in or be referred by primary healthcare providers like AKTIBU before undergoing triage at the Department of Pediatrics. Those requiring specialized developmental services will then be referred to the DS Hub.
Developmental pediatrician Dr. Alexis Reyes said the center offers more than developmental assessments, noting that early diagnosis must be accompanied by intervention, parent education, and continuous support.
“It’s not really just the service of assessment because assessment is only the first part. We need programs to enhance children’s capabilities, ensure interventions are appropriate, and help parents understand their children’s condition,” Reyes said.
The project is a collaboration among BRHMC, the NORFIL Foundation, and Liliane Fonds, with the hope that local government units and communities will help strengthen an integrated referral and support system for children with developmental disabilities. (PNA)
