The Local Health Care System of the Province of Ilocos Sur

Health is fundamental to life. It is in this premise that efforts are being undertaken to improve the health system of every country. The focus of the study was on the different components of the Local Health Care System and the quality of health services of selected Rural Health Units and District Hospitals in the province of Ilocos Sur. The study revealed that the Administrative Capability along leadership and good governance is “moderate”. Along the capability of health personnel in terms of ratio to total population, only two municipalities have the ideal number of doctors and nurses while only five municipalities have an ideal number of midwives. There is also a shortage of human resources for health, particularly doctors, in almost all the district hospitals. However, the limited number of nurses and midwives is compensated by the presence of contractual and volunteer nurses and midwives. In general, the clients expressed their satisfaction on the services provided. Suggestions were made largely on availability of free medicines, laboratory services, reduction of waiting time, and improvement of facilities. Efforts should be undertaken to ensure that programs and policies are implemented and objectives are reached through improved coordination across local health systems.

Keywords: Public Health, Rural Health Units, District Hospitals Capability, Services, Quality, Ilocos Sur