The Malasakit Center is a government agency that operates in hospitals across the Philippines. It aims to provide one-stop assistance to patients seeking medical treatment by helping them access healthcare services and financial assistance programs. The Center coordinates with different government organizations involved in healthcare to streamline the process of obtaining treatment. Social workers at the Center play an important role in assessing patients' needs, connecting them to resources, advocating for their rights, and ensuring comprehensive care that addresses medical as well as social challenges. The ultimate goal is to make healthcare affordable and accessible for all Filipino citizens regardless of their financial background.
2. PROFILE
• Healthcare is a fundamental human right, promoting disease prevention and
improving quality of life, it also contributes to an individual’s development and
economic growth, However some individuals cannot access quality healthcare
due to financial conditions. With that said, the government launced the Malasakit
Center to ensure the filipino can access healthcare services, especially these less
fortunate. The Malasakit center is a one stop shop facility established and
hospital premises where indigent and financially incapable patients can request
financial assistance and medical assistance from varying participating
government agencies. This program was initiated by special assistant to
President Christopher Bong Go, per the order of President Rodrigo Duterte.
3. REPUBLIC ACT NO. 114631
AN ACT ESTABLISHING MALASAKIT CENTERS IN ALL DEPARTMENT OF
HEALTH (DOH) HOSPITALS IN THE COUNTRY AND IN THE PHILLIPINE
GENERAL HOSPITAL (PGH) PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES
4. VISION:
• It is a one-stop shop for medical care that aims to simplify complex processes and
provide free access to quality healthcare for all. The national government's goal is
to provide equal access to Health Case services without putting a financial strain
on the people.
5. MISSION:
• Malasakit Centers bring together representatives from the Department of Social
Welfare and Development, DOH, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and
Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. These one-stop shops aim to support
impoverished patients in reducing their hospital costs to the least possible
amount.
6. GOAL AND OBJECTIVE:
• Malasakit Centers were established as government-backed hospitals that provide
health care services for free or at a discounted rate. They are designed to help
poor individuals obtain access to quality healthcare services regardless of their
financial background.
7. BENEFICIARIES:
• - Indigent and financially incapacitated patients of government hospitals shall be
eligible to avail of the services of the Malasakit Center.
8. GEOGRAPHIC COVERAGE
• A Malasakit Center is a government facility that helps citizens receive medical
assistance by providing transportation and accommodations for those who are
financially unable to afford treatment. The center also works with hospitals,
doctors, and other health professionals to coordinate care for patients. As of
Novemver 24, 2022. There are 153 Malasakit Centers across the Philippines, The
153rd Malaskit Center opened at the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in San
Fernando Pampanga.
9. SERVICES OFFERED BY THE AGENCY
• Through the Philippine government's initiative to establish Malasakit Centers
nationwide, Filipino citizens can access medical assistance regardless of their
financial conditions. This program helps patients by providing accommodations
and transportation and reducing hospital expenses.
10. Volunteers can assist in various task such as data entry, patient assistance, and
administrative support.
• Educational Programs; Conduct health education programs and workshops to
improve health literacy in the community. This can include sessions on disease
prevention, nutrition, mental health, and preventive care.
• Mobile Outreach; Consider a mobile Malasakit Center that can travel to remote
areas or areas with limited access to health care facilities.
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18. The Malasakit Center is a micro-level agency. It operates at the local level within
hospitals in the Philippines. The main purpose of the Malasakit Center is to provide
one-stop assistance to patients and their families, helping them navigate through
the bureaucratic processes, financial assistance programs, and access to
healthcare services. The center aims to alleviate the burden on individuals seeking
medical treatment by ensuring seamless communication and coordination between
different government agencies involved in healthcare and financial aid.
19. • The Malasakit Center primarily works in the field of healthcare and social
assistance. Its main purpose is to provide support and assistance to patients and
their families who are seeking medical treatment. The center helps individuals
navigate through the healthcare system, access financial assistance programs,
and facilitate communication between different government agencies involved in
healthcare services. It aims to streamline and expedite the process of obtaining
medical treatment by addressing bureaucratic barriers and ensuring efficient
coordination of services.
20. The role and function of social work within the Malasakit Center include:
1. Assessment and Support: Social workers assess the needs and circumstances of
patients and their families who seek assistance at the Malasakit Center. They provide
psychosocial support, identify barriers to care, and develop plans to address social,
emotional, and financial challenges that may hinder access to healthcare.
• 2. Case Management: Social workers coordinate and manage the overall care of
patients, ensuring they receive the necessary medical services, financial aid, and
follow-up care. They work closely with healthcare providers, government agencies,
and community resources to facilitate a comprehensive and holistic approach to
patient care.
21. • 3. Advocacy: Social workers advocate for the rights and well-being of patients
within the healthcare system. They help patients understand their rights, navigate
complex healthcare processes, and access necessary resources. Social workers
also collaborate with other professionals to address systemic issues and promote
policies that improve the overall healthcare experience.
• 4. Referrals and Resources: Social workers connect patients and their families to
available resources and support services, both within and outside the Malasakit
Center. These can include financial assistance programs, counseling services,
support groups, and community organizations that provide additional assistance
and support.
• Overall, social workers within the Malasakit Center play a vital role in ensuring that
patients receive comprehensive and compassionate care, addressing not only their
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24. ROLE OF SOCIAL WORKER:
• Assess and evaluate patients social, emotional, and financial needs.
• Provide counselling and emotional support to patients and their families.
• Assist the completion of necessary paperwork and documentation for accessing
healthcare benefits and financial assistance.
• Collaborate with healthcare proffesionals to develop individualized care plans for
patient.
• Connect patients to community resources such a housing assistance, food
assistance,and tranpotations services.
25. • Advocate for patients’ rights and ensure they recieve appropriate and equitable
care.
• Educate patients and their famlies on relevant health care issues and self care
strategies
• Over all social workers play a critical role in helping navigate the challenges and
complexities of the health care system.
26. RECOMMENDATION
• Community Outreach: Organize community awareness campaigns to inform
people about the services offered by the Malasakit Center. This can be done
through flyers. social media, and local channels.
• Collaboration with local Organizations: Partner with local organizations, NGOs,
and government agencies to expand the reach of the Malasakit Center and
provide a comprehensive range of services to the community.
• Volunteer Recruitment: Conduct volunteer recruitment drives to gather individuals
who are passionate about helping others.