Delivery of health service within a devolved structure in Tigbauan, Iloilo

Abstract

This is a study on the health service delivery by Tigbauan health workers in the era of devolution in Tigbauan, Iloilo. The study aims to identify the perceived effect of devolution on the behavior of Tigbauan health workers in delivering health services. Twenty-five health workers served as respondents. They reported their perception of the effect of devolution and other related information by answering the questions asked by the authors with the use of an interview guide. The interview guide has five parts that emphasize the perceived effect of devolution. The health workers believe that IRA for health of the Local Government Unit of Tigbauan is not sufficient. Although requisitions for drugs and medicines are easier, however, there are no buffer stocks that can provide the future needs of the community. The health workers are affected by the unequal salary and benefits. Provincial paid health workers receive all the benefits accorded by the law while municipal paid health workers have not. The health workers bat for salary equalization because they are demoralized with these prevailing disparities. The Local Chief Executives (LCEs) are the key actors in delivering health services in Tigbauan. The success of devolution lies in their hands. If health services are prioritized more people will have better access to health. One key advantage of devolution is that the LCEs know the situation in their locality; thus it will be easier for them to recognize the appropriate programs, projects and activities that could answer to the health needs of the people.