TACLOBAN CITY — The Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC) is poised to modernize its services and infrastructure as it capitalizes on a significant increase in government funding, its leadership announced in a press briefing on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.
Dr. Joseph Michael Jaro, EVMC chief of hospital, outlined key developments in the hospital’s expansion efforts, including infrastructure upgrades, new health service programs, and the rollout of a digital records system—all part of its drive to fully establish itself as the region’s premier Level 3 referral hospital.
EVMC’s budget for 2025 has more than doubled to P1.27 billion, up from P500 million in 2024, allowing the hospital to address longstanding service gaps and meet rising patient demand, he said.
Jaro also cited a notable increase in PhilHealth coverage, from just 30% to over 50%, a development expected to ease the financial burden on patients and increase access to essential healthcare.
“We now have a larger budget, but what we lack are project partners,” Jaro said, referring to procurement challenges such as the limited number of bidders for hospital projects—including the critical supply of surgical implants.
“We have the resources, but the immediate need is for suppliers who can help us deliver timely services, especially for patients dependent on financial assistance,” he added.
A central initiative in EVMC’s inclusive healthcare strategy is its “Bill Mo, Sagot Ko” program, which covers medical expenses for indigent patients.
Dr. Jaro said this remains a vital mechanism for ensuring that no patient is denied treatment due to financial constraints.
The hospital is also set to implement the Quick Medical Electronic Record (QMeR) system, a digital solution developed by the provincial government of Leyte and first used at Leyte Provincial Hospital.
The system aims to streamline patient data management, shorten waiting times, and enhance coordination among medical teams. Training of frontline staff is currently ongoing, with full implementation expected soon.
Although legally mandated for 1,500 beds, EVMC is currently serving beyond its capacity. Expansion plans are underway to improve patient accommodation and enhance hospital services.
As EVMC navigates the challenges of modernization, Dr. Jaro emphasized the hospital’s commitment to innovation, stronger partnerships, and improved patient care: “With sustained support from the government and cooperation from stakeholders, we are confident that EVMC can rise to meet the healthcare needs of Eastern Visayas.”
(SHYNNA MAE SESBRENO, ELBERT M.YODICO, LNU STUDENT INTERNS)
