The recent clinical laboratory for Water Bacteriological Analysis and cell blood counter (CBC) machine used by the Rural Health Unit of Bauko proposed an increase in fee charges starting next year upon the approval of Municipal Vice Mayor Bartolome Badecao.
According to Medical Lab Technician, Venus KIsofen of Luis Hora Memorial Hospital, CBC machine is one of the important tools of Doctors to assess the condition of patients, such as diagnostic and monitoring of treatment.
Medical Lab Technician Linda A. Agagen of Rural Health Unit (RHU)-Bauko shared that in the past, microscopes and manual processes were being used for clinical laboratories. Now, the upgraded machine is being used for faster and more efficient results.
Agagen added that the increase in price for the reagents and other expenses which includes registration and fine fees are some of the major reasons for the added charges.
In an interview, Agagen said that water lab fees only amounted to 100 pesos but is bound for a 250-peso increase, excluding electric bills. Same through with CBC test that is bound for an 80-peso increase.
At the moment the fees for reagents are being handled by the RHU-Bauko but before the Department of Health (DOH) are the ones who shouldered the expenses on water bacteriology.
In addition, she said that the LGU is also paying for requirements for the accreditation of a laboratory good for three years.
Residents of barangay Kalimbatawa and Bila shared their sentiments regarding the issue. Dominga Pagiyen and Romualdo Badongen said that the price increase should at least be inclusive to those struggling with finances who cannot avail the service.
Venus Kisofen, Medical Laboratory Technician of Luis Hora Memorial Regional Hospital said that the Malasakit Program which provides medical and cash assistance to indigent people can help patients in shouldering the additional expenses for the price increase. Agagen also supported the statement that they will give a free service to PhilHealth beneficiaries if the Universal Health Care is Implemented.
IMPORTANCE OF CBC MACHINE
CBC machine helps to assess the patience regarding their problems with health conditions. It could test and examine the certain number of cells if there are any abnormalities as well as measurement of hemoglobin and Hematocrit. The statement was supported by Medical Laboratory Technician Venus Kisofen that using CBC machines can determine if the patient is anemic or if there is an infection on patients’ health. She added that this technology made a great tool for easier batch testing of samples in one run. By Jemina San Juan
