KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato —Governor Reynaldo Tamayo Jr. highlighted the success of the province’s “cashierless” hospital system, ensuring that even costly treatments like dialysis are now completely free for every patient.
The governor made the statement during the formal opening of the third dialysis center in the province located in Polomolok Municipal Hospital, held in line with the hospital’s 34th anniversary.
More than a ceremonial milestone, the launch signaled a major expansion of the province’s healthcare capacity, particularly for patients battling chronic kidney disease who require regular, lifelong treatment.
“Wala naman talagang bayaran, dahil wala tayong cashier. May PhilHealth man o wala, o kahit lumampas na sa kanilang allocation, wala talaga silang babayaran,” Tamayo stressed.
His statement highlights a critical reality that dialysis, often a financial burden for Filipino families due to its frequency and cost, is now being delivered free of charge in South Cotabato.
The governor emphasized that the province’s healthcare system is designed to be inclusive, extending services even to patients from neighboring areas.
However, he maintained that South Cotabateños remain the top priority in accessing these benefits.
Beyond accessibility, Tamayo also set his sights on quality and sustainability.
He revealed that the newly opened dialysis center is targeting Level 1 accreditation within the year, a step that will further enhance its operational standards and ensure consistent, safe, and effective treatment for patients.
The dialysis initiative forms part of a broader, long-term healthcare vision of the provincial government.
Among its key goals are the establishment of a district hospital in every district and the rollout of infirmary hospitals across all local government units, ensuring that no community is left without basic and essential medical services.
Anchored on its flagship cashierless hospitals, South Cotabato’s healthcare model continues to break traditional barriers in public service.
By integrating free dialysis into its zero-billing policy, the province not only addresses immediate medical needs but also restores dignity and hope to patients who once viewed treatment as financially out of reach.
In South Cotabato, healthcare is no longer a privilege, it is a guarantee, where even the most demanding treatments are delivered with compassion, accessibility, and the promise of life.
