A humanitarian effort was successfully conducted as the Australian non-government organization Insulin For Life (IFL) partnered with the Bacolod City Health Office (CHO) to provide free screening and medications to vulnerable residents suffering from chronic illnesses, a press release from the Bacolod City Communications Office said.
The initiative, held at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) lobby on November 17, is a key component of the CHO’s ongoing Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Program: Hypertension and Diabetes Club.
The event rallied under the theme: “Bantay Presyon! Bantay Asukal! Bantay Buhay!”
Seventy indigent beneficiaries received comprehensive and critical health services during the one-day event.
These services included a full check-up covering vital signs monitoring, blood pressure (BP) assessment, and blood sugar testing. Most importantly, IFL distributed free insulin and essential blood sugar medications, all shipped directly from Australia to those in need.
The distribution was spearheaded by Australian National Neil Donelan of Insulin For Life. While the check-ups and medications were provided entirely free of charge, a voluntary fee of P50 per insulin pen was requested from recipients solely to help cover the logistical costs associated with shipping the supplies from Australia.
This joint effort emphasizes the commitment of both the local government and international partners to fighting Non Communicable Diseases in the community.
The collaboration is part of a monthly initiative, with the location varying each month to reach diverse populations across Bacolod.
The selection of the BCGC lobby for this month ensured easy accessibility for the beneficiaries.
The partnership between the Bacolod CHO and Insulin For Life, an organization globally recognized for salvaging and redistributing surplus diabetes supplies to those in resource-poor settings, is set to continue providing a vital lifeline to residents managing chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes.*
