The pediatric department of Eastern Samar Provincial Hospital (ESPH) received a vital boost to its essential services to vulnerable newborn patients during a turnover of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) equipment recently.
The donation was made possible through the Rotary Club of Salcedo Makati, Rotary Club Sae Onyang, and the provincial government.
The equipment includes two infant incubators, four phototherapy machines, eight infusion pumps, one refrigerator and milk storage unit, two continuous positive airway pressure machines, and an uninterruptible power supply system.
Dr. Blyth Delantar, head of the ESPH Department of Pediatrics, stressed the profound impact of the donation.
“They are a lifeline for our most vulnerable patients.”
“These are more than just pieces of equipment. They are a lifeline for our most vulnerable patients,” Delantar said, noting how each item will make it possible to provide critical and life-saving care to newborns.
ESPH operates the only NICU in Eastern Samar, serving one city and 22 municipalities.
The unit’s vital role is underscored by the significant number of newborns it attends to.
In the past year, the NICU cared for 1,231 babies, with 78 (63.3 percent) being premature, while in the first four months of this year alone, they have cared for 315 newborns, 23 (7.3 percent) of whom were premature.
Delantar said the crucial support will enable ESPH to “act faster, work more efficiently, and deliver the highest quality of care to the infants and families who depend on us”.
The donation was facilitated by outgoing Governor Ben Evardone, who proposed the collaboration between the provincial government and the Rotary Club, under the leadership of its president, Noel Rapadas.
“Hindi ako mahihiyang makiusap sa inyo at magmakaawa dahil kailangan po namin ang tulong ninyo.”
“This is not just a mere donation. This is actually love for Eastern Samar,” Evardone said.
“Hindi ako mahihiyang makiusap sa inyo at magmakaawa dahil kailangan po namin ang tulong ninyo. Muli, maraming salamat po sa inyong lahat,” the governor added.
Present at the turnover ceremony were governor-elect RV Evardone, the chairman of the committee on health of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Board Member Atty. Byron Suyot, BM Jun Quelitano, and Provincial Health Officer II Dr. Marian Epefania R. Isiderio.
