The San Vicente Health Center in Quezon City has undergone a major upgrade through a partnership between SM Foundation and the city government, expanding access to primary health care services for nearly 15,000 residents across four barangays.

Health officials said the improvements address long-standing challenges faced by the facility, including space constraints, aging infrastructure, and its location in a flood-prone area. Demand for services—particularly maternal and child health care—has consistently exceeded the center’s capacity.

“My vision for a health center is one that is aligned with universal health care, strong, inclusive, modern, and patient-centered, where we promote wellness, prevent disease, treat illness, and deliver quality care across all stages of life,” San Vicente Health Center medical officer Dr. Dane Calica said.

As part of the renovation, the facility now has a dedicated adolescent room, a breastfeeding room, and a minor surgical room. Additional upgrades include improved consultation rooms, expanded waiting areas, a pharmacy, a dental clinic, and designated spaces for senior citizens, pregnant women, and children.

District 4 Health Officer Dr. Marizel Wong said the collaboration highlights the importance of public-private partnerships in strengthening health services.

“Malaking bagay ito because the public and private sectors really have to go hand in hand,” Wong said. “If the private sector gives efficiency, the government gives equity.”

She added that the renovated facility feels “more homelike,” helping encourage patients—particularly those previously hesitant—to seek care earlier.

The center is also now equipped with DigiKonsulta under SM Foundation’s health and medical programs, improving access to consultations and allowing the facility to meet requirements for Department of Health accreditation as a Primary Care Facility.

A key addition is the adolescent room, designed to provide youth-friendly services in a safe and confidential setting.

“Adolescents often hesitate to consult for mental health or reproductive concerns in shared clinical areas, which is why having a dedicated, youth-friendly room is crucial,” Calica said.

Wong said the improvements are already leading to better health-seeking behavior among residents.

“Because of the renovation, more patients are now willing to come to the health center early,” she said. “This allows us to promote prevention and conduct early diagnosis, which helps reduce morbidity and mortality.”

“The upgrades by SM Foundation have strengthened not only our primary health care services but also supported our health care workers,” Calica added. “This allows us to deliver better health outcomes for the community.”