Assessment Task 1: Reflection on
Philippine Health Care Delivery
System
1. Assess our health care delivery system. How is it compared to our
neighboring countries?
According to the World Health Organization's Ranking of the World's Health System, the
Philippines came in at number 60 out of 191 nations in 2017. Additionally, it received a
ranking of 120th out of 195 nations in research by B. Due to inadequate access to and quality
of healthcare for the treatment of illnesses that are readily preventable, Kritz (2017)
reported in the Manila Times. Both the public and private sectors participate in the
Philippine healthcare system. Hospitals were able to improve and expand their facilities
because of the pandemic to better handle the crisis. Public hospitals take the lead in
educating the public about health concerns while concentrating their efforts on preventative
and basic care. The health outcomes in America are no better than those in other
industrialized nations, despite increased healthcare spending. In certain common health
measurements, such as life expectancy, infant mortality, and uncontrolled diabetes, the
United States performs poorly. The Philippines' healthcare system is generally of good
caliber. Despite the lower quality of the facilities, they operate with than in upscale US or
European healthcare institutions, the medical personnel in the Philippines are highly
competent.
2. Universal Health Care was signed into law last February 20, 2019. What are
your thoughts on such law? Cite examples and references.
Universal healthcare, often referred to as a single-payer or national healthcare system, is a
healthcare system where the government provides or guarantees healthcare coverage for all
its citizens. Such systems aim to ensure that everyone has access to essential healthcare
services without facing financial hardship. Potential Benefits of Universal Healthcare:
o Access to Care: Universal healthcare can expand access to healthcare services,
ensuring that everyone, regardless of their income or employment status, can
receive necessary medical treatment.
o Cost Control: It may help control healthcare costs by reducing administrative
overhead and negotiating lower prices for medical services and prescription drugs.
o Preventative Care: Universal healthcare systems often emphasize preventative care,
which can lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of health conditions, potentially
reducing long-term healthcare costs.
o Equity: Universal healthcare can promote healthcare equity by reducing disparities
in access to care among different socioeconomic groups.
o Simplicity: A single-payer system can simplify the healthcare system by eliminating
the need for complex insurance plans and billing processes.
3. Give specific Philippine health care agency which is responsible for the health
of its people. In what way this agency can be beneficial to all Filipinos?
The Department of Health (DOH) is the main government organization in charge of
maintaining the welfare of its citizens. The formulation and execution of national policies,
programs, and initiatives concerning the nation's public health and healthcare delivery is
within the purview of the DOH. It is essential for safeguarding Filipinos' wellbeing and
facilitating access to healthcare services.
The Department of Health (DOH) may benefit all Filipinos in the following ways:
o Healthcare Access: The DOH works to expand access to healthcare services,
particularly for underserved and marginalized populations. It establishes and
maintains health facilities, clinics, and hospitals throughout the country, making
healthcare more accessible to all Filipinos, regardless of their socioeconomic status
or geographic location.
o Health Promotion and Education: The DOH conducts health promotion and
education campaigns to raise awareness about preventive healthcare measures,
nutrition, sanitation, and disease prevention. These efforts empower Filipinos to
make informed decisions about their health.
o Disease Control and Surveillance: The DOH is responsible for monitoring and
controlling the spread of infectious diseases. It plays a crucial role in responding to
disease outbreaks, implementing vaccination programs, and ensuring the safety of
the population during public health emergencies.
o Maternal and Child Health: The DOH focuses on improving maternal and child
health outcomes through programs such as prenatal care, child immunization, and
family planning services. This contributes to reducing maternal and child mortality
rates.
o Public Health Infrastructure: The agency invests in healthcare infrastructure
development, which includes the construction and maintenance of healthcare
facilities, procurement of medical equipment, and enhancement of healthcare
services in rural and remote areas.
