Senior citizens will get free medical services at the Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center (JRRMMC) in celebration of National Hospital Week this August.

The JRRMMC, the National Children’s Hospital, and Department of Health (DOH) hospitals nationwide dedicate a week-long celebration, from Aug. 6 to 12, 2024, pursuant to Proclamation No. 181, series of 1993.

“In celebration of National Hospital Week, JRRMMC is proud to offer free medical services to senior citizens throughout the week. It is our way of giving back to our community and honoring the invaluable contributions of our elderly Filipino residents,” JRRMMC Medical Center chief Wenceslao Llauderes said.

DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said the celebration aims to honor and recognize the role of hospitals and healthcare workers in promoting, safeguarding, and preserving the health of the people.

“I encourage all hospitals, both government and private, to participate in the activities of the National Hospital Week. This milestone is more than just a celebration; it is a call to action. A healthcare provider network founded on strong primary care is completed by hospitals that deliver inpatient services. This is also our time to highlight patient safety,” he said.

The week-long event started Monday during the simultaneous flag-raising ceremony of all DOH hospitals.

A wreath-laying ceremony will be held at Jose Rizal’s monument in Luneta Park to commemorate his contribution in the field of medicine.

Meanwhile, the First Hospital Summit will be held from Aug. 7 to 8, 2024, with discussions focused on enhancing quality of care, advancing compassionate service, and promoting safety initiatives and practices within the hospitals.

The week-long event will end with the Hospital Olympics at the Marikina Sports Complex on Aug. 9. (PNA)