NKTI urged to continue being ‘catalysts’ to universal healthcare

FILE: PBBM departs for Davos on a mission to seal investments, bring home more jobs for Pinoys (PCO Photo)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday called on healthcare workers of the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (NKTI) to continue being “catalysts” for specialized health and medical services to Filipinos afflicted with kidney-related diseases, citing how having adequate healthcare is vital to attaining a strong and globally competitive citizenry.

In his speech during the 40th founding anniversary of the NKTI, Marcos said he was “proud” to have been a witness to the NKTI’s growth since it was established during the term of his father, the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos Jr., in 1983.

“…I am proud to have been witness to the NKTI’s birth and its development. From its humble beginnings as a two-ward, 50-bed facility, the NKTI has now grown into a 50-building complex with 383 beds, providing round a clock emergency services and state-of-the-art medical care,” he said in his speech at the NKTI Atrium in East Avenue, Quezon City.

Marcos said it was “very gratifying” to see the NKTI become a center of innovation and excellence in various diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, complemented by world-class facilities and competent and hardworking personnel who sacrificed much to serve many Filipinos.

He lauded the institution and its healthcare workers for reaping many awards through the years as well as the distinction of having one of the region’s most experienced surgical transplant teams and the nation’s top transplant program.

“With the NKTI’s numerous achievements, your institution stays true to its core mission of providing readily accessible medical assistance to meet the demands of our people. Your sustained excellence and compassion have also inspired hospitals and facilities around the country to follow your lead,” he added.

Marcos said the NKTI’s sustained excellence and compassion have inspired other hospitals and facilities around the country to follow their lead.

With many deaths attributed to kidney disease in the country, Marcos said it is imperative that the government ensures that dialysis treatment will be readily available, accessible and cost-effective for all Filipinos.

“The ultimate goal is to lower the deaths and disabilities associated with kidney disease and kidney failure, especially for those who are not able to access dialysis treatment due to the high cost,” he added.

He said he was “very happy” over how the NKTI has always adhered to the highest standards of quality patient care by providing affordable and timely diagnosis, prevention, treatment and rehabilitation to patients.

“I ask your institution to continue being catalysts for universal healthcare by innovative solutions that decrease our country’s mortality rate in kidney disease,” he said.

He likewise urged the public to join government efforts to build a stronger and healthier future for Filipino generations.

Debt of gratitude

Meanwhile, Marcos expressed gratitude to NKTI doctors, nurses, and personnel of the NKTI for their dedication, competence, and expertise in providing quality renal care and alleviating the suffering of Filipinos with kidney disease.

He also thanked them for sharing the best practices, research developments and training provided to various healthcare professionals and individuals all over the country.

“For all of these reasons, we owe you a debt that cannot be repaid, and we will see to it that your institution gets all the help that is necessary for its advancement and its progress,” he said.

He also lauded the NKTI for serving as a central focus in the government’s Covid-19 pandemic response.

He assured that the sacrifices of NKTI healthcare workers will not go unnoticed.

“…We are committed to supporting the NKTI in all its noble endeavors,” he added.