A new Super Health Center aimed at expanding access to essential medical services was formally inaugurated on Monday in Lavezares, Northern Samar – the third municipality in the province to establish a Department of Health (DOH)-funded facility.
Northern Samar Governor Harris Christopher Ongchuan, Lavezares Mayor Edito Saludaga, and DOH provincial officer Rommel Francisco led the inauguration.
The Super Health Center is designed to provide a wide range of medical services, including outpatient care, maternal and birthing services, laboratory diagnostics such as X-ray and ultrasound, pharmacy services, and medical and dental consultations, particularly for residents in areas far from hospitals. Minor surgical procedures will also be available.
Ongchuan said residents not only from Lavezares but also from neighboring towns such as Biri, Rosario, and San Jose, may avail of the center’s services.
“The provision of health services is one of our top priorities, and establishing this Super Health Center is aligned with our goal of bringing essential medical services closer to communities. The provincial government remains committed to supporting the operation of this center,” he said.
Ongchuan thanked DOH for funding the project, as well as the local government of Lavezares and healthcare workers, for their continued efforts in improving healthcare access, especially for indigent families.
San Roque became the first municipality in Northern Samar and in Eastern Visayas to open a Super Health Center when it was inaugurated in 2023, followed by Catarman in 2025.
Introduced in 2021, the Super Health Center program is an enhanced version of rural health units equipped with basic to intermediate healthcare services, including laboratory testing, X-rays, ultrasounds, electrocardiograms, outpatient consultations, maternal and child care, tuberculosis screening, minor surgeries, and ambulatory surgical services. The centers also serve as satellite vaccination sites, pharmacy dispensaries, and referral hubs for patients needing more specialized care. (PNA)
