Iloilo’s provincial government on Tuesday signed a partnership agreement with a private sector provider to establish and operate dialysis centers across district and provincial hospitals, bringing hemodialysis services closer to Ilonggo patients.

The landmark public-private partnership with AC Health and Healthway Medical Network was finalized in a ceremony at the Healthway Town Hall in Makati City.

All 12 district hospitals and the provincial hospital will be equipped with modern dialysis centers compliant with the Department of Health (DOH), starting with eight dialysis stations at each center.

Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. led pertinent provincial officials in the signing ceremony, while AC Health president and chief executive officer (CEO) Paolo Borromeo, Healthway Medical Network president and CEO Jaime Ysmael spearheaded the private partners.

“This partnership is a milestone in our commitment to ensure that no Ilonggo is left behind when it comes to essential healthcare. By working with AC Health, we are bringing much-needed dialysis services directly to our district hospitals, enabling more patients to receive life-saving treatment,” Defensor said in a statement.

In the agreement, the provincial government will allocate space for the dialysis centers within hospital compounds, while AC Health/PMVI will equip, manage, and operate the facilities according to DOH standards.

Data from the provincial government showed that more than 50,000 residents require hemodialysis. However, most centers are in Iloilo City.

“Our district hospitals are the first care point for many families. This partnership with AC Health helps them serve chronic kidney disease patients better and support a healthier Iloilo,” Debuque said in a statement from the provincial government.

Through the partnership, dialysis patients will also benefit from standardized clinical protocols, expanded capacity, and more affordable treatment supported by Philippine Health Insurance Corp. coverage and provincial medical assistance programs.

Patients will also receive priority access to advanced diagnostics, specialized care, and other services, including kidney transplant pathways.

“We are fully committed to ensuring that these dialysis centers operate at the highest standards of safety and efficiency. Our team is prepared to provide the infrastructure, equipment, and daily management needed to run these facilities sustainably,” Ysmael said. (PNA)