Two New Dialysis Centers to Open on Siargao Island, Offering Free Services to Local Residents
In a significant boost for healthcare on Siargao Island, two new dialysis centers are set to open, providing free dialysis services for local Surigaonons. The centers will be located in Purok 2, Dapa, and Purok 2, General Luna, addressing a long-standing healthcare need for residents facing kidney issues.
"Kidney problems represent the highest number of medical cases in Surigao. Our goal is to offer accessible, quality healthcare to Surigaonons who struggle to afford such services. These dialysis centers will help us achieve that," stated Surigao del Norte 1st District Rep. Francisco Jose "Bingo" Matugas.
The centers will each be equipped with 15 advanced dialysis machines from Japan, capable of serving up to 45 patients daily. Additionally, the General Luna center will allocate two machines specifically for tourists who require dialysis, enhancing the island's healthcare offerings for both locals and visitors.
Currently, there are no dialysis centers on Siargao Island, forcing patients to travel to Surigao City or Butuan for treatment. Former 1st District Rep. Atty. Lalo Matugas highlighted the challenges Siargaonons face, sharing the story of a patient from San Isidro who spends approximately PHP 5,000 per session in Surigao City, not including transportation costs. "For a family relying on a single income, weekly expenses exceeding PHP 20,000 are simply unmanageable," he explained.
The new centers are also expected to bolster Siargao’s appeal as a medical tourism destination. “For tourists who need regular dialysis, having treatment options available on the island means they can enjoy Siargao without interrupting their medical needs,” said Matugas.
Rep. Bingo Matugas and Atty. Lalo Matugas also revealed plans to establish more dialysis centers throughout the province, particularly in underserved areas with high rates of kidney disease.
The project is a collaborative effort between the local government and private partners, Kaiser International Healthgroup, Inc. and Hydromed Technical Services, and represents a substantial step forward in healthcare accessibility for Siargao Island and beyond.
