ACT NOW Program Launched

The City Government of Baguio through Mayor Benjie Magalong and the Health Services Office, Diabetes Philippines, Inc., Philippine Association of Diabetes Educators, Association of Diabetes Nurse Association of the Philippines, and AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals (Phils.), Inc. launched the ACT NOW Program that aims to address complications from Diabetes Type 2, Hypertension, and Dyslipidemia for Baguio constituents. The program launching followed a Memorandum of Agreement signing at the Multipurpose Hall on January 12, 2023.

Having the overall goal to help curb the complications of diabetes, the ACT NOW Program include establishing a referral hub to serve as information pathway and treatment access; educate health practitioners to better identify, manage, and advice individuals regarding prevention and treatment of cardiorenal complications; and public education on the importance of lifestyle modification and adherence to therapies to practically prevent complications.

Following the launching of the program, the City of Baguio accepted three AVE-733-A urine analyzer machines and urine testing receptacles and strips, which will be used to assist in diagnosing kidney diseases.

The Philippine Association of Diabetes Educators (PADE) and Association of Diabetes Nurse Educators of the Philippines (ADNEP) will conduct lay education and professional advice on early prevention and diabetes care.

In attendance were AstraZeneca Philippines Country President Lotis Ramin, Associate Director for Medical Affairs Dr. Cyril Joseph Tolosa, Diabetes Philippines President Dr. Francis Pasaporte.

The pact signing was witnessed by Committee Chairperson on Health and Sanitation, Ecology, and Environmental Protection Councilor Betty Lourdes Tabanda, City Health Officer Dr. Rowena Galpo, Assistant City Health Officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, the Representative of Diabetes Philippines Baguio-Benguet Chapter Dr. Dwight Black, HSO staff, BJMP, Hospital Representatives and other stakeholders.

Studies reveal that Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is the 4th leading cause of premature death with Impaired Kidney Disease as the 9th leading cause of disability and death in the Philippines. Likewise, hemodialysis procedures topped procedural cases reimbursed through Philhealth in 2021.