Inquiry on the Safety, Welfare, and Benefits of Hospital Workers and Medical Staff

Inquiry on the Safety, Welfare, and Benefits of Hospital Workers and Medical Staff His Excellency Ferdinand E. Marcos, Jr. President of the Republic of the Philippines Malacañang Palace Manila Dear Mr. President, Subject: Inquiry on the Safety, Welfare, and Benefits of Hospital Workers and Medical Staff I am writing to express my concern for the safety, welfare, and benefits of hospital workers and other medical staff in our country. These individuals, often celebrated as heroes, have made immense sacrifices, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is a growing concern that their contributions are not adequately rewarded or protected. May I respectfully inquire about the following points, which aim to address this issue comprehensively: 1. Heroism and Rewards o While we hail our health workers and other frontliners as heroes, what are we doing to tangibly reward them for their heroism? 2. Job Security o Many hospital workers in government facilities lack regular employment, leaving them without security of tenure. What measures are being taken to address this? 3. Fair Compensation o Many medical staff are underpaid and occupy positions below their qualifications and training. Are there ongoing initiatives to address salary standardization and proper placement? 4. Protective Equipment o Numerous health workers face contamination risks due to inadequate protective equipment. Some even resort to using homemade masks instead of certified N-95 masks. How can this be resolved? 5. Staff Quarters o Many hospitals lack quarters for staff to rest after long shifts, especially during emergencies and epidemics. Is there a plan to provide adequate facilities? 6. Life Insurance o Do health workers have life insurance coverage in case of death due to contamination or occupational hazards? 7. Sustainable Rewards o Post-pandemic, many companies offered temporary freebies and discounts to health workers. Can we establish a sustainable program to recognize their efforts? 8. Free or Discounted Meals o Can hospitals provide free meals in their cafeterias or at least offer discounts to augment the limited incomes of their staff? 9. Free or Discounted Transportation o Can health workers benefit from free rides or discounted fares on public transportation, similar to what is extended to students? 10. Retention of Medical Workers o Would these incentives reduce the outflow of nurses and medical workers to other countries? 11. Universal Healthcare and Medical Worker Welfare o How can we achieve universal healthcare if our medical workers are not adequately taken care of? 12. Existing Laws and Proposals o Are there existing laws that address these concerns but are not being implemented? Are there new legislative measures being proposed? 13. DOH and Congressional Action o What steps is the Department of Health (DOH) taking to address this issue? Is Congress conducting hearings or initiating programs to resolve these challenges? Our healthcare system depends on the dedication and expertise of our medical workers. Ensuring their welfare is not just a moral obligation but a crucial step in strengthening our healthcare system and achieving universal health coverage. I trust in your administration’s commitment to the well-being of every Filipino, and I am hopeful for a positive response to these concerns. Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. Respectfully yours, Ramon Ike V. Seneres iseneres@yahoo.com, 09088877282, senseneres.blogspot.com Cc: Secretary of Health Chairman of Civil Service Commission Commissioner of the Insurance Commission Committee on Health, Senate of the Philippines Committee on Health, House of Representatives 01-19-2025