Apayao reaches over 90% performance in DOH health system assessment

Apayao’s local health system is showing measurable gains following the recent assessment and validation led by the Department of Health – Center for Health Development Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH-CHD CAR) as part of the Universal Health Care (UHC) rollout.

Held at the LMP Hall in Luna, said activity covered the Local Health System Maturity Level Assessment and LGU Health Scorecard validation, with provincial and municipal health teams taking part alongside DOH representatives.

Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Mark Joleen Calban said the province entered the integration process later than most in the region, recalling that in December 2022, Apayao was still working to fully align its local health system. He noted that subsequent technical support from DOH helped firm up policies, systems, and coordination at the provincial level.

Those changes are now reflected in the latest assessment. According to Dr. Bridgit Hydee Salao, Medical Officer IV and head of the Health Systems Development Center, Apayao has reached over 90 percent functional performance, placing it among the stronger-performing local government units in the Cordillera.

The validation covered important areas such as governance, planning and financing, human resources for health, information systems, procurement and supply chain, referral systems, disaster risk management, and health promotion. Initial results show several areas already in place, with others still being worked on.

The Provincial Health Office (PHO) said the province continues to align its development agenda with the Department of Health’s priority outcomes as it works to improve service delivery at the local level.

The activity continues with mentoring and coaching sessions for municipal health units and local governments to address remaining gaps and sustain gains in the system.