The Role of Leadership in Increasing Access to Health at the Local Level: A Study on the City of Muntinlupa

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.