AC Health pitches in to curb HIV spike

Ayala Healthcare Holdings, Inc. (AC Health) is expanding HIV screening, treatment, and education across its network in response to the Department of Health’s (DOH) call to address the surge in infections.

AC Health Chief Health Officer Dr. Beverly Ho said Thursday that the company will offer free HIV screening and literacy programs across more than 220 corporate clinics. Screening is also available at 16 Healthway Multi-specialty Clinics nationwide.

“Workplace-based screening provides a convenient way for employees to get tested,” Ho said.

“Early detection and proper treatment allow people living with HIV to lead long, healthy, and productive lives. That is our vision for the Filipino workforce.”

AC Health has partnered with the Pilipinas Shell Foundation to train 40 frontline healthcare workers, including nurses and pharmacists, in HIV counseling. Another 40 are scheduled to undergo training this June.

HIV treatment services are provided through the Healthway Medical Network, including QualiMed Hospital in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan — a Department of Health-designated treatment hub and PhilHealth-accredited facility.

The company also offers access to essential medicines and technologies through its pharmaceutical subsidiaries, I.E. Medica and MedEthix.

In 2023, AC Health signed a memorandum of understanding with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to expand HIV care in the Philippines.

With USAID gradually phasing out its programs, AC Health said it is stepping up to deliver stigma-free and lifesaving services.

Earlier this week, Health Secretary Ted Herbosa reported a 500 percent increase in HIV cases among Filipinos aged 15 to 25.

From six daily cases in 2010, the DOH now records 40 to 57 new infections each day — prompting Herbosa to call for a “whole-of-society approach” to the crisis.