BY TIMOTHY JOHN D. REMORCA
BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya (June 28, 2023)—Aimed at addressing the shortage of medical professionals in the province, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) has passed an ordinance establishing the Nueva Vizcaya medical scholarship and return service program.
Authored and proposed by Board Member Patricio Dumlao Jr. and Board Member Elma Pinao-an Lejao, the ordinance is also known as the Nueva Vizcaya “Doktor ti Umili” scholarship program which is set to provide aspiring medical students with financial assistance and create a return service program to ensure that ample healthcare services are available for every Novo Vizcayano.
Dumlao said the ordinance aims to support talented and deserving individuals who have the passion and dedication to pursue a career in medicine.
“Under this initiative, selected scholars will receive full financial assistance for their medical education, including tuition fees, books, and other necessary expenses. The program seeks to alleviate the financial burden that often hinders students from pursuing a medical degree and encourage more young individuals to enter the medical profession,” the authors explained.
Dumlao and Lejao expressed their enthusiasm for the program’s potential impact saying, “the Nueva Vizcaya Doktor ti Umili” Scholarship Program is a transformative step towards addressing the scarcity of healthcare professionals in our province.”
They noted that by supporting aspiring doctors and easing their financial burden, “we are creating opportunities for them to serve our communities and contribute to the overall well-being of our people.”
In addition to providing scholarships, the program also includes a return service component. Upon completion of their medical education, scholars will be required to serve in the province for a specified period.
Dumlao said this ensures that enough medical professionals are available for deployment to the hospitals managed and operated by the Provincial Government of Nueva Vizcaya and that by implementing this return service mechanism, the provincial government will enhance healthcare access and bridge the gap between the availability of medical services and the needs of the population.
The authors also emphasized the importance of investing in local talents and retaining them within the province.
“Through the Nueva Vizcaya Doktor ti Umili Scholarship Program, we are nurturing our homegrown talents and creating opportunities for them to contribute to the development of our province. This initiative not only improves healthcare services but also empowers our youth to fulfill their dreams and make a difference in the lives of our people,” they said.
Dumlao said the passage of this ordinance marks a significant milestone for Nueva Vizcaya as it addresses the pressing need for more medical professionals in the province while simultaneously providing opportunities for aspiring doctors to achieve their goals.
“By investing in the education and training of local talents, the provincial government is taking a proactive approach to ensure the well-being of its residents and promote equitable healthcare access,” the authors said.
Dumlao said once the scholarship program is in place, the province will witness a new generation of Novo Vizcayano medical professionals who will serve as the backbone of its healthcare system, delivering quality care and addressing the health concerns of its people.
This groundbreaking initiative demonstrates the commitment of the local government and its passion for duty to uplift the healthcare sector and create a brighter future for Nueva Vizcaya.