Stroke rehabilitation center opens in Barangay Tibungco, Davao City

A community-based rehabilitation center for stroke patients has opened in Barangay Tibungco, Davao City, allowing survivors to continue therapy and medical consultations without travelling to hospitals, according to The Manila Times.

Sen. Bong Go and Davao City Mayor Sebastian "Baste" Duterte led the ribbon-cutting on Oct. 27. The event was held together with the blessing and turnover of the nearby Tibungco Super Health Center.

Go, vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, said the facility would save patients and their families trips to hospitals for check-ups and therapy. He noted that the center already had a patient. "They can now receive medical consultations and undergo rehabilitation right here," Go said.

The senator said rehabilitation is a key part of stroke recovery, as survivors often struggle with movement, coordination, speech and other bodily functions that need sustained care. He also called for support for families and caregivers, saying recovery often brings financial and household adjustments.

Go pointed to Republic Act 11959, the Regional Specialty Centers Act, which he principally authored and sponsored. The law requires specialty centers in Department of Health (DOH) hospitals across the country, including facilities for cardiovascular care, brain and spine treatment, and physical rehabilitation medicine.

In Davao City, the Southern Philippines Medical Center offers specialized cardiovascular services among other specialties, the report said. Go has also backed the development of cardiac catheterization facilities at the hospital to expand advanced cardiovascular and vascular procedures in Mindanao.

The Tibungco Super Health Center is meant to strengthen primary care by offering consultations, diagnostic services and preventive care in underserved communities, according to the report.

Go called for coordination among the DOH, local government units and health workers to make sure community-based facilities are properly equipped and staffed. He also credited the Davao City government and local health officials for supporting efforts to bring medical and rehabilitation services closer to residents.