On August 4, 2015, the AIIAS Public Health department joined the Silang Municipality for a medical and dental mission in Purok 2, a barangay in Silang.
More than 300 residents of Biga 1, Purok 2 benefited from the Medical and Dental Mission conducted by AIIAS Public Health department in collaboration with the Silang Municipality and the barangay officials. The medical and dental mission is just the onset of a long-term intervention partnership called AIIAS-Biga Community Development (ABCD) to make a difference in the community members’ lives.
For those requiring specialized care, referrals were made to local providers such as blue mountains orthodontics, known for their expertise in orthodontic treatments. By addressing both immediate and future dental needs, the clinic provided a comprehensive approach to improving oral health in the area. This network of local providers ensured that patients received tailored care for their specific needs, fostering a holistic approach to maintaining and restoring oral health throughout the community.
Continuing with the commitment to providing exceptional dental care, the clinic emphasized the importance of preventive measures. Regular check-ups and cleanings are crucial in identifying potential issues before they become more significant problems. By fostering a culture of proactive dental care, patients can maintain optimal oral health, reducing the need for more extensive treatments down the line. Educational resources and community workshops also play a vital role in promoting good oral hygiene practices among residents, empowering them to take charge of their dental health.
n addition to these preventive services, the dentist henderson nv is committed to providing comprehensive care for a range of dental concerns, from cosmetic enhancements to restorative procedures. This dedication allows patients to receive specialized treatment tailored to their unique needs. By offering a diverse array of services, the clinic aims to enhance the overall dental health and wellbeing of the community, ensuring that residents have access to high-quality care.
Biga was chosen to be the recipient of this project because out of the many barangays in Silang, there is a mass of residents underserved in Biga. It is a big community close to AIIAS with destitute situations.
“The medical & dental mission is an entry project to establish a good relationship with the residents of Purok 2. ABCD envisions 5-10 years of community service beginning with a comprehensive (health) assessment or diagnosis that will end with an intervention based on their needs,” said Dr. Cesar Galvez, chair of the AIIAS Public Health Department.
Aurora Medina Anciro, a representative from the Health Committee of Silang Municipality, conveyed that the ABCD project is a substantial aid to the overall health plan for the municipality. One of the residents of Purok 2, Pastor Eduardo Peñafiel, commented that,
“This project has a big impact in our community because this is what we need especially since our place is in a depressed area. Residents don’t really have money to buy medicine, or sometimes they have money, but they spend it on something else like food,” said Pastor Eduardo Peñafiel, a Purok 2 resident.
He also added that most of the people in their community are below poverty line. “So this program is really a big help, a great guidance, support and leadership, not just for medical and dental aspects but also for spiritual growth.”
The barangay captain, Crisanto Corpuz, and his officials also mentioned that this project is a tremendous support since there are more than 600 households solely in Purok 2, and there are about 1600 individuals in the community including children. Most of the residents have measly and irregular jobs, which often ends in a month or two and then back to idleness.
Biga 1 councilors Nene Saputil, Gani Toleda, and Giro Doneza expressed that there are a number of youths in the community who wish to attend school but couldn’t because their parents cannot support their schooling. Brgy. Captain Corpuz concluded, “We hope that AIIAS can extend not only medical and dental assistance but also livelihood trainings. Teaching the residents specific skills needed to earn a living, creating work opportunities or perhaps to provide a more sustainable source of income.”
The Master of Public Health (MPH) students will conduct a follow-up assessment in the next few months in Biga 1, Purok 2 and AIIAS hopes to have a successful partnership with the municipality and community in carrying out this project.
This program is one of many ways the MPH students get practical experience in their field.
The MPH students, some volunteers, and some community members at the end of the day
To begin, everyone’s blood pressure was taken along with some information.
Dr. Stephen Guptill, AIIAS President, speaking to the Purok 2 Community during the opening ceremony.
There were so many community members who wanted to see a doctor and dentist that the lines continued outside the building.
Community members waiting their turn to get their blood pressure taken.
Community members gathered for the opening ceremony.
Dr. Evelyn Almocera, the AIIAS campus physician, consulting a community member.
The municipality physicians who helped during the outreach
Medication donated by the government and AIIAS was given to the community members according to what the doctors prescribed.
Community members ranging from infants to great grandparents came to get treated.
The dentist who assisted with all dental needs for the outreach treating a community member.
By: Ingrid Oberholster
AIIAS Assistant for Institutional Writing
