Inserting a progestin subdermal implant into a client’s arm during the training.
Dipolog City has taken a significant step to reinforcing its commitment to accessible and quality healthcare by training 20 dedicated healthcare providers in family planning. The training – made possible through The Challenge Initiative (TCI) – focused on enhancing skills and knowledge in progestin subdermal implant insertion. This collaborative effort involved the regional family planning coordinator Suzette Gonzales of the Department of Health IX, along with the provincial family planning coordinator Elena Daarol, and Dipolog City Health Office family planning coordinator Deborrah Pontanar, demonstrating the city’s commitment to advancing healthcare services.
Diverse Healthcare Providers
Family Planning Competency-Based Training is aimed at empowering healthcare providers with the expertise needed for progestin subdermal implant insertion, a vital aspect of modern family planning. Recognizing the varied family planning needs of its residents, Dipolog City strategically selected a diverse group of healthcare professionals for the Family Planning Competency-Based Training. This cohort comprising midwives, nurses and a doctor reflects a commitment to comprehensive and inclusive family planning services tailored to the unique requirements of both urban and rural settings.
Preventing Client Loss in Referral
A trainee inserts an implant while facilitators observe other trainees performing the procedure.
Of the 20 service providers, 10 midwives and nurses were assigned to far-flung barangays, ensuring that family planning services will reach even the most remote barangays (villages) of Dipolog City. This approach addresses geographical barriers and promotes inclusivity thereby preventing the loss of family planning clients in referral. With the local family planning provider assigned in every Barangay Health Station (BHS) equipped to provide progestin subdermal implant insertion services, clients no longer have to travel to the city for services.
Alleviating Financial Burdens
The strategic selection and placement of trained service providers in far-flung communities significantly alleviates financial burdens on families. Eliminating the need for travel allows families to save up to Php200.00 (about USD $3.50) in transportation costs – funds that can now be reallocated for other essential needs, such as food. This not only underscores the economic well-being of the families but also ensures that financial constraints do not hinder access to vital healthcare services such as family planning.
The training in Dipolog City is a testament to the city’s commitment to advancing healthcare services. Through collaboration, local leadership and a strategic focus on community needs, Dipolog City is positioning itself as a beacon of reproductive health excellence.
