By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Negros Occidental provincial government announced plans to increase the bed capacity at four provincial hospitals. According to provincial hospital operations head, Dr. Leonardo Eusebio, the proposal seeks to meet the demand generated by a growing number of patients across the province.
He noted, the proposal is currently awaiting approval from Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson.
In addition, Eusebio said the project will be funding through the Universal Health Care Law.
Earlier this year, amid implementation of the Universal Health Care Law, it was reported that the Negros Occidental Comprehensive Health Program was under review. Lacson noted, the Department of Health regional director already assured the province will receive more funds under the new law.
The governor suggested using the provincial program to cover the costs of medicine for discharged patients.
Eusebio noted, the Teresita L. Jalandoni Provincial Hospital in Silay City will see an increase from 100 to 500 beds, Cadiz District Hospital in Cadiz City and Lorenzo D. Zayco District Hospital in Kabankalan City will be upped by 300 beds each, and Valladolid District Hospital in Valladolid will see a 200-bed increase.
Meanwhile, the provincial official said the facilities will also see an upgrade in facilities, equipment, and personnel./DGB, WDJ