The Department of Health (DOH) in Ilocos Region has started the deployment of 20 newly appointed government physicians, making quality healthcare accessible across the region.

“Our 20 new doctors represent hope for communities that have long waited for consistent and accessible medical care. Their deployment ensures that quality healthcare moves closer to the homes of our fellow Ilocanos,” said DOH Ilocos Region director Paula Paz Sydiongco in a statement Thursday.

The doctors will be assigned to geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas (GIDAs), rural health units and government hospitals across the Ilocos Region to augment frontline services and strengthen primary care delivery.

The newly deployed doctors will directly support disease prevention, maternal and child health services, non-communicable disease management and emergency response capabilities.

“We are strengthening the foundation of our primary care health system by deploying doctors where they are needed most,” she said.

Sydiongco said the deployment aligns with DOH’s continuing efforts to boost human resources for the healthcare system. (PNA)