Assessing the Benefits of a One-Stop Medical and Financial Support Program: From the Standpoint of Patients of Eduardo L. Joson Memorial Hospital in the Philippines

Abstract

This study described the benefits of the Malasakit Center based on the perspectives and experiences of patients of Eduardo L. Joson Memorial Hospital. It employed mixed research methods and interviews as the primary data collection tool. The study was conducted in March 2020 with thirty patients and patient's relatives receiving services of the hospital. Most of the respondents are male and within the age bracket of 30 to 39 years old. All the participants reflected a positive response to Malasakit Center, as it lessened the burden of producing documentary evidences to avail of the services. A procedure observed prior to implementing the Malasakit program. This study also focuses on how the Center made the service more accessible. To further maximize its benefits, information dissemination needs to be widened and its location in the province and in the Philippines should be advertised for increase patronage. Posting of the requirements for availment of Malasakit Center services is likewise essential and may considerably increase the number of applicants for the services of the Center.