New model for healthcare facility

Rural healthcare units (RHUs) are evolving from a facility with basic equipment and services to modern ones featuring more treatment options, advanced medical machines, improved ambience and earth-friendly fixtures. 

Leading the RHU redesign is SM Foundation Inc., the corporate social responsibility arm of the SM Group, with its latest makeover of the Laoag City RHU III Primary Care Facility and Birthing Home in Ilocos Norte serving as model for its healthcare innovation.

Better patient experience is a hallmark of any SM Foundation-renovated RHU. A homey reception area that tones down the clinical setting serves as a more supportive environment for mothers and infants. The floor layout also improves patient flow and support more efficient consultations and treatments. 

A mobile play cabinet creates a calming environment for children receiving medical care. The cabinet contains gender-neutral educational toys and interactive learning materials aimed at reducing anxiety during clinical visits.

Like hospitals, RHUs are sanitized facilities to protect patients from germs. Key areas of the renovated birthing home used air-cleaning paints to help maintain a sanitary environment. 

Established in 2018, RHU III was designed to serve 23 barangays on the south side of the Padsan River or Laoag River, which had limited access to basic healthcare. It offers preventive and primary care services, including immunization, disease surveillance, free consultations, dental care, and maternal health programs. With the enhancements, however, RHU III now meets the standards set by the Department of Health and PhilHealth to become an accredited facility eligible for expanded healthcare coverage.

The same upgrades make RHU III on track to expanding capacity to more than 35,000 residents.

Moreover, the RHU supports remote medical consultations (DigiKonsulta) and digitalizes patient records.

To align with SM Group’s sustainability policy and practices, RHU III uses LED lights to conserve energy. A rainwater catchment system allows for sustainable use of water. The collection tank supplies non-potable water to flush toilets, reducing reliance on main water lines and boosting the facility’s resilience during emergencies.

With its high quality renovation courtesy of SM Foundation, RHU III serves as a model for other rural health facilities to modernize.