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Advocates Philippines
DBM Allocates P2 Billion To Prioritize Cancer Prevention And Mental Health Support In 2024 Budget Proposal
Photo credit: Jec Santiago / Usapang Budget
In a resolute move towards enhancing public health, Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman has spotlighted the battle against non-communicable diseases, including cancer, as a top priority for President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr.
The commitment is evident in the proposed 2024 National Expenditure Program (NEP), which sets aside a substantial P2 billion fund for the prevention, treatment, and control of these debilitating conditions.
With an unwavering determination, Secretary Pangandaman has stressed that this allocation symbolizes a significant stride in the nation's effort to address pressing health concerns. A remarkable P1.024 billion has been designated under the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases program to assist 18,695 cancer patients.
These funds will be instrumental in securing 61 crucial cancer-related commodities, such as Trastuzumab 600 mg/5mL, Docetaxel 40 mg/mL, and Paclitaxel 6 mg/mL.
"When I see patients, especially the children... at times, I can't help but shed tears. But I understand deeply that I must remain strong. My resolve is unyielding in finding innovative avenues to provide the support and aid they deserve," Secretary Pangandaman expressed emotionally.
Furthermore, the Cancer Assistance Fund (CAF) will receive a substantial allocation of P1 billion, signifying a steadfast commitment to easing the financial burdens faced by 6,666 registered cancer patients across 31 cancer access points nationwide. This fund will contribute to the provision of continuous medical care, both inpatient and outpatient, encompassing essential cancer control services. It aims to bridge the financial gap that existing healthcare systems may not cover. On average, Filipino families bear an approximate cost of P150,000 per patient for these essential treatments.
In tandem with the Cancer Control Program, the remaining P682.709 million from the P1.7 billion earmarked for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases initiative will focus on mental health patients – a population numbering 124,246. This financial support will pave the way for mental health medications, including Sodium Valproate 250 mg, Paliperidone Palmitate 100 mg, and Haloperidol 5 mg/mL, ensuring the well-being of patients in 362 mental health access sites nationwide.
The comprehensive strategy outlined by Secretary Pangandaman underscores the government's unwavering dedication to tackle non-communicable diseases head-on. This unprecedented budget allocation signifies a proactive approach to address health concerns that often inflict both physical and financial strains on Filipino families.
The commitment is evident in the proposed 2024 National Expenditure Program (NEP), which sets aside a substantial P2 billion fund for the prevention, treatment, and control of these debilitating conditions.
With an unwavering determination, Secretary Pangandaman has stressed that this allocation symbolizes a significant stride in the nation's effort to address pressing health concerns. A remarkable P1.024 billion has been designated under the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases program to assist 18,695 cancer patients.
These funds will be instrumental in securing 61 crucial cancer-related commodities, such as Trastuzumab 600 mg/5mL, Docetaxel 40 mg/mL, and Paclitaxel 6 mg/mL.
"When I see patients, especially the children... at times, I can't help but shed tears. But I understand deeply that I must remain strong. My resolve is unyielding in finding innovative avenues to provide the support and aid they deserve," Secretary Pangandaman expressed emotionally.
Furthermore, the Cancer Assistance Fund (CAF) will receive a substantial allocation of P1 billion, signifying a steadfast commitment to easing the financial burdens faced by 6,666 registered cancer patients across 31 cancer access points nationwide. This fund will contribute to the provision of continuous medical care, both inpatient and outpatient, encompassing essential cancer control services. It aims to bridge the financial gap that existing healthcare systems may not cover. On average, Filipino families bear an approximate cost of P150,000 per patient for these essential treatments.
In tandem with the Cancer Control Program, the remaining P682.709 million from the P1.7 billion earmarked for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases initiative will focus on mental health patients – a population numbering 124,246. This financial support will pave the way for mental health medications, including Sodium Valproate 250 mg, Paliperidone Palmitate 100 mg, and Haloperidol 5 mg/mL, ensuring the well-being of patients in 362 mental health access sites nationwide.
The comprehensive strategy outlined by Secretary Pangandaman underscores the government's unwavering dedication to tackle non-communicable diseases head-on. This unprecedented budget allocation signifies a proactive approach to address health concerns that often inflict both physical and financial strains on Filipino families.
Aug 22, 2023
