DOH says continuous healthcare remains top priority

Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Dr. Jose “Brix” Pujalte Jr. centers his firm stance that “the health of our people is our highest priority” during any public hazard or national emergency.

He said the primary goal of the health sector must be ensuring continuous, uninterrupted delivery of quality healthcare services.

His overarching approach to mitigating health crises and reinforcing DOH guidelines highlights three main principles: continuous service delivery, to ensure hospitals, local clinics, and emergency responders remain active and fully equipped during a crisis.

Prioritizing the vulnerable to secure critical health supply chains—such as the immediate distribution of essential maintenance medicines and treatments in order the vulnerable patients do not experience stockouts during emergencies.

The DOH said that in the possibility of a tragedy, disaster, or severe calamity, it advises the public to prioritize safety by preparing an emergency Go Bag, staying informed through official local updates, avoiding floodwaters, and evacuating immediately when instructed by local authorities.

The public was advised to pack an emergency go bag with clean drinking water, ready-to-eat food, a first-aid kit, flashlights, a power bank, a radio, and important documents.

Keep emergency hotline numbers—such as emergency services—handy and know the nearest health facilities or designated evacuation centers and charge all electronic devices and power banks ahead of time.

During floods and storms the DOH told the public not to wade, walk, or drive through floodwaters to prevent severe waterborne infections like leptospirosis.

The children should be kept away from overflowing canals, streams, and rivers, turn off household electricity and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanks if rising waters threaten the home.

Those living near coastal areas, riverbanks, or landslide-prone zones should evacuate immediately and follow local barangay or LGU directives.

Seek prompt medical consultation if exposed to environmental hazards or floodwaters and utilize mental health and psychosocial support services provided by local health councils if trauma or panic occurs.