BY: VALERIE ANN DISMAYA

For years, the Western Pangasinan District Hospital has dreamed of having its own dialysis center…

And on January 13, that dream became a reality.

One of the most grateful beneficiaries of this new facility is 36-year-old Descebelle from Bani.

Previously, she had to travel over two hours to San Carlos City just to undergo dialysis at the Pangasinan Provincial Hospital.

Aside from the long journey, she also spent a significant amount on transportation and food.

But with the new WPDH facility in Alaminos City, accessing dialysis treatment has become faster and easier for her.

“It’s much closer. What used to take two hours now only takes 20 minutes. I’m very grateful to the governor, this is a huge help for us dialysis patients,” said Descebelle Ordoñez, a dialysis patient.

Governor Ramon V. Guico III, who envisions Pangasinan as the healthiest province in the country, has vowed to expand free healthcare services for Pangasinenses.

“One of our campaign promises is healthcare, so we are focusing on improving our hospitals and the public health program and system of Pangasinan.”

With the opening of this new dialysis center, the lives of patients in need of continuous treatment have been made easier.

Dr. Ma. Teresa Sanchez, Chief of Hospital – Western Pangasinan District Hospital, expressed, “This is a huge help. I’m very grateful to Governor Mon-Mon Guico for initiating the establishment of the hemodialysis clinic at WPDH. Patients can use their PhilHealth coverage here, so they won’t have to pay out of pocket. For those without PhilHealth, we can process assistance through MAIPP.”

Because of this, dialysis patients are beyond grateful.

“This is amazing. I’m so thankful because we used to spend so much money, and now, many of the services are free,” said Damaceno Gacutan, a dialysis patient.

For those who wish to receive free dialysis, the necessary documents must be submitted to the WPDH office.