In line with the city’s commitment to promoting a healthy workplace, the Davao City Health Office (CHO) conducted a free health services caravan for city government employees on Tuesday.
The activity took place at the Rizal Park, and was participated in by doctors from the CHO.
Dr. Tomas Miguel Ababon, Officer-in-Charge of the CHO, said in an interview with the City Information Office (CIO) that the activity is part of the observation of the World TB Day, and an extension of the Araw ng mga Empleyado.
“This event is celebration of our World TB Day, and also this is an extension of the Araw ng mga Empleyado, as you can see we cater only the employees of the City Government of Davao,” Ababon said.
During the caravan, city government employees may avail of free X-ray, pneumococcal vaccine, tests for blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure. A free consultation may also be availed of during the activity, as well as medicines.
“Gina-accommodate namo tanan pero naa mi mga priority, for example sa X-ray ang priority namo is katong mga smokers nga naay mga sintomas sama sa ubo nga dugay na, and sa kining blood chem nato naa pud mi priority pero open gihapon siya, ang priority namo is katong naa na’y na diagnose nga diabetes na daan, nga naa na’y taas og cholesterol daan, ansd katong mga empleyado nato nga 40 years old and up [We accommodate everyone, although we have priorities. Example for X-ray, we prioritize smokers who are already exhibiting symptoms like persistent coughing; while for the blood chem, we prioritize those who are already diagnosed with diabetes, high cholesterol, and employees who are 40 years old and above],” Ababon added.
The CHO also prioritized employees with existing comorbidities during the activity.
Meanwhile, Ababon urged Dabawenyos who smoke to stop smoking, and to drink moderately and responsibly. The CHO has counselors to help provide intervention and guidance to individuals who wish to stop smoking. Dabawenyos are also encouraged to practice a healthy lifestyle with exercise and proper diet. CIO