DAVAO DE ORO (PIA) -- In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at bringing medical services closer to geographically-isolated and disadvantaged areas, the Mati City local government successfully conducted the first-ever Mobile Surgical Outreach Program recently in Barangay Lanca.

The surgical operation was held at the barangay gymnasium with the surgical team led by the Southern Philippines Medical Center's Department of Surgery head Dr. Rolley Rey Lobo, along with Mati IMT commander and Mati City Health Officer Dr. Ben Hur Catbagan Jr., together with the volunteers from the Surgery Department of SPMC and City Health Office of the CIty of Mati.

The program utilized a dedicated Mobile Surgical Unit to perform minor and medium surgeries on the far-flung barangay.

A total of 25 patients underwent minor surgeries performed on site, while 21 medium and major surgical cases screened would be referred by the city to the Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center or the SPMC with transport and financial assistance provided.

The medical team ensured that all patients received the necessary medical care and attention, irrespective of their operation status.

This outreach program aligns with the Universal Health Care Act, which aims to provide quality health services and financial risk protection to all Filipinos.

Additionally, it supported the objectives of Executive Order No. 22 series of 2023, advocating for the delivery of basic government services directly to barangays and households to expedite Mati City's post-pandemic recovery.

All services provided during the Mobile Surgical Outreach Program were free of charge, reinforcing the city government's commitment to prioritize the health and well-being of the community.

The success of this initiative showcased the dedication and collaboration between the City of Mati LGU, the City Health Office, and the volunteer surgeons from SPMC.

It also highlighted the importance of bringing medical services closer to the communities in need.

Looking ahead, the partnership team aspires to expand the program to other communities in the City of Mati ensuring that those in need receive essential medical assistance at no cost.

The Mobile Surgical Outreach Program sets an important precedent for future endeavors and serves as a testament to the City of Mati LGU's commitment to delivering quality healthcare services.

Aside from the Surgical Outreach Program, the CHO also turned-over an ambulance to Brgy. Cabuaya.

The successful implementation of the mobile surgical outreach program marks a significant milestone for the City of Mati LGU, inspiring plans to extend the program to all 26 barangays.

The City of Mati LGU, in collaboration with the City Health Office, remains dedicated to mobilizing resources and providing quality medical services to the community. (JD-PIA Davao de Oro/PR-CIO MATI)