In line with the plans to redevelop the emergency hospital that stands more than a decade, the city allocated a total cost of PhP 70,995,764.18 that will be utilized to improve the facilities and equipment of the 3-story infirmary that also has a 50-bed capacity. The renovation works covered a total floor area of 3,320 square meters, which includes the main lobby, medical wards, laboratory, pharmacy, X-ray room, isolation wards, doctors’ quarters, and the administration office.
In the bargain, the newly improved VCEH now has an operational hemodialysis centre in partnership with AC Health. The facility is equipped with 12 hemodialysis machines and chairs. Additionally, PhilHealth will cover up to 156 sessions at a maximum per year, which cost approximately PhP 6,000 each in order to assist the patients in bearing the significant financial burdens. While the excess expenses will be taken care of by the Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP) Program.
On the flip side, coincidental with the momentous inauguration of the emergency hospital, the multi-level parking building was built right beside it that is designed to accommodate more vehicles carrying the patients—especially government vehicles such as ambulances. The 2-story parking building cost PhP 61,031,075.21 and has a total floor area of 2,223 square meters. The aforementioned facility has 37 parking spaces, four concessionaire spaces, a dining area, and restrooms. The decision to set aside a large space for cars was made in response to the congestion dilemma as clients arrive at the emergency hospital simultaneously.
In his message during the ceremony, Mayor WES conveyed his enthusiasm for the succeeding health programs he has in store for Valenzuela City. As part of his Valenzuelife campaign—a city where everyone appreciates the beauty of life—he outlined his future goals to further improve the healthcare system. He said, “Natutuwa po ako na bago matapos ang aking unang termino ay nagawa po nating magawa ang lahat ng ating renovation at upgrading sa ating ospital na ito. As you can see, more than 13 years na po ang ating pasilidad [at alam naman po natin] na ito ang isa sa pinakaimportanteng pasilidad sa Valenzuela. Maraming buhay na po ang naisalba ng pasilidad na ito. Bagamat marami na tayong na-budget-an na proyekto, para po sa akin, pinakamahalagang pagandahan ang VCEH.” [I feel proud that before my first term ends, we were able to complete all the renovations and improvements in our hospital. As you can see, our facility has been operational for more than 13 years, and we all know that it's one of the most important facilities in Valenzuela. Many lives have been saved by this facility. Although we have established budgets for several projects, but for me, VCEH should be our top priority].
Moreover, the local government vows to institute and outline initiatives for the betterment of the healthcare system in Valenzuela City. On July 1, 2025, Mayor WES Gatchalian will deliver his 1st State of the Health Address (SOHA) to further lay his plans on the health sector.
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