Abstract:
This study sought to determine the role of the Local Chief Executive in increasing
access to health of the people. Moreover, we looked into the impact of this role
in increasing health consciousness and empowerment of the people. The
researcher interviewed key health officials who worked closely with the Mayor
regarding health matters. A survey was also conducted on three barangays in
the case study, the City of Muntinlupa. Simple random sampling was used to
determine the sample barangays. Names of the barangays were written in
sheets of paper then the researcher drew lots. For the purpose of this study, the
Philippine National Railway Site was chosen as survey site. The researcher
used a self-administered questionnaire to determine the knowledge level of the
constituents when it comes to the available health services and programs. A
total of one hundred and thirty six heads of the families gave permission to
become participants of the survey. Simple descriptive statistics was used in
analyzing the survey results. Coding technique was employed for the interviews
conducted, as well as in analyzing the responses to the open-ended questions of
the survey questionnaire.
Our analysis revealed that the Local Chief Executive plays three indirect roles in
increasing access to health of the people, namely, the initiative role, the
facilitative role, and the figure role. Survey showed that the people had limited
knowledge of the existing health programs and services provided. They were
also barely aware of the various health campaigns being conducted by the
Department of Health through the city health department. However, it was found
out that the people were adamant to avail of the health services and programs
from the City. They believed that the government should prioritize the health
condition of the poor and underprivileged. More than that, they were empowered
to actually demand enhancement of the health services, particularly the provision
of medicines and improvement in the attitudes of the health staff.
