On 23 March 2024, the Rotaract Club of Baguio SLU School of Medicine embarked on a noble mission to provide essential healthcare services and promote education in the heart of Benguet, Philippines. Spearheading a Medical Outreach program at Gold Creek Elementary School in Ucab, Itogon, the club showcased the power of collaborative efforts in uplifting communities and addressing fundamental needs.
With a spirit of service and compassion, the Rotaract Club reached out to approximately 100 patients during the outreach program. Their comprehensive medical consultations encompassed various aspects, including eye, ear, and mother-child checkups. Ensuring accessibility to healthcare, the club provided free medicines, with special attention given to the elderly by offering a one-month supply of vitamins and maintenance medications.
Recognizing the importance of preventive care, the Rotaract Club distributed basic medications for common ailments such as diarrhea, fever, coughs, and colds. Moreover, they extended their support beyond medical necessities by sharing hygiene essentials like shampoo and lotion, catering to the holistic well-being of the community.
Education emerged as a cornerstone of the outreach program, as all children at Gold Creek Elementary School received essential school supplies, including pencils, sharpeners, erasers, and writing pads. Through engaging lectures on Proper Handwashing, the club instilled crucial hygiene practices among the children, promoting disease prevention and health awareness. To further incentivize learning, prizes were awarded to students who actively participated and demonstrated knowledge during the educational sessions.
The success of the Medical Outreach program was not achieved in isolation. Partnering institutions played a pivotal role in enhancing the scope and impact of the initiative. Institutions like Northskills Polytechnic College Inc. recorded patients’ vital signs, contributing to comprehensive healthcare assessments. Additionally, dentists and dental students from Pines City College Dentistry imparted valuable lessons on oral and dental hygiene, ensuring that the community received holistic healthcare guidance.
Beyond immediate relief, the Rotaract Club’s initiative resonates deeply with the core values of peace, justice, and integrity of creation advocated by the CICM. By embodying the principles of engaged citizenship, the club exemplifies a commitment to social responsibility and community empowerment.
Moreover, the outreach program aligns seamlessly with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), notably SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Through their multifaceted approach, the Rotaract Club contributes to building healthier, more resilient communities while fostering inclusivity and sustainability.
In conclusion, the Rotaract Club’s Medical Outreach program stands as a beacon of hope and solidarity, showcasing the transformative power of collective action and compassion. As they continue to serve and inspire, their efforts serve as a testament to the profound impact that grassroots initiatives can have in shaping a brighter, healthier future for all.
