Ilocos Norte Health Connect Forum Champions Vaccination as a Key to Senior Health and NCD Management

Following the celebration of Filipino Elderly Week, health experts and representatives from Ilocos Norte’s regional and provincial offices gathered at the Regional Health Connect Forum to to emphasize the crucial role of timely vaccinations in safeguarding seniors, especially those with non-communicable diseases (NCDs), from preventable illnesses. The forum showcased Ilocos Norte’s integrated healthcare strategy, combining chronic disease management with vaccination programs to enhance elderly well-being.

According to the 2023 Field Health Service Information System, 3,520 seniors in Ilocos Norte are affected by hypertension, and 1,017 by diabetes. These non-communicable diseases significantly increase seniors’ susceptibility to infections like influenza and pneumonia if unvaccinated, underscoring the urgent need for timely immunizations and targeted health interventions to safeguard them for preventable diseases.

In response to this, Dr. Justin Clyde E. Gubatan, Unit Head of the Non-Communicable Diseases Unit at DOH-Center for Health Development (CHD) Region I, emphasized the need to integrate NCD management with vaccination programs to protect seniors. “Effective senior care requires a dual approach—managing chronic diseases and ensuring timely vaccinations. By uniting local governments, health offices, and stakeholders, we can provide comprehensive services that not only control NCDs but also shield seniors from severe infections like the flu, improving their quality of life and reducing the financial burden on families and the healthcare system,” he said.

Building on these initiatives, Dr. Medeldorf Gaoat, Chair of the Committee on Health for the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte, highlighted the importance of expanding healthcare funding and deploying more mobile health clinics to reach seniors in remote areas. “By advocating for more resources, we can ensure that seniors, especially in underserved communities, receive the care they truly deserve,” he stated.

Supporting this preventive strategy, Dr. Augusto Niccolo Salalima, from the Philippine Heart Association’s Council on Preventive Cardiology, emphasized the importance of regular check-ups, lifestyle changes, and timely vaccinations for seniors. He recommended the “Pinggang Pinoy” meal guide for balanced nutrition, noting that these healthy habits can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.Dr. Salalima pointed out that vaccinations not only prevent infections but also reduce the risk of severe complications in older adults

Legislative efforts are also underway to strengthen healthcare support for seniors. Atty. Germaine Trittle Leonin, representing Rep. Milagros Magsaysay of the United Senior Citizens Party-list, shared updates on key health bills in the 19th Congress. Among the notable proposals are House Bill No. 7305, which aims to establish the Philippine Center for Geriatric Health, and HB No. 6309, which seeks to provide universal social pensions for seniors, including increased discounts on medicines and groceries. While both bills have been approved by Congress and are currently pending in the Senate, Atty. Leonin reaffirmed their commitment to advancing policies that ensure seniors receive essential healthcare and support.

As the country moves toward an aging society, Dr. Maria Cristina Ignacio-Alberto, Board Member of the Philippine Foundation for Vaccination (PFV), underscored the need for a robust healthcare system. “Healthy aging requires a multi-sectoral approach. Laws and health programs must address the growing burden of NCDs and prevent vaccine-preventable diseases,” she remarked.

The Health Connect media forum, an award-winning platform launched during the pandemic to deliver accurate health information, is organized by the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP), the Philippine Foundation for Vaccination, and the Philippine Medical Association (PMA).

Moderated by journalist and health advocate Ms. Jing Castañeda, the forum spotlighted Ilocos Norte’s commitment to senior healthcare through integrated services and public awareness campaigns. By prioritizing vaccinations and managing NCDs, the province is setting a model for safeguarding senior well-being.