Digitalization of Referral System in BHS and RHU Launched in Davao de Oro

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The Provincial Government of Davao de Oro officially launched the Davao de Oro (DDO) E-referral System on August 26, spearheaded by the Provincial Information and Communications Technology Office (PICTO) in collaboration with the Provincial Health Office (PHO).

The innovation aims to streamline and expedite patient navigation and referrals from barangay health stations (BHS) and rural health units (RHU) to hospitals, marking another milestone in the province’s implementation of Universal Health Care (UHC). Governor Raul Mabanglo expressed full support for the initiative, highlighting the importance of digitalizing health services for more efficient delivery of care.

Dr. Eunice B. Lawas-Manansala, Chief of Clinics of the Davao de Oro Provincial Hospital (DDOPH) Montevista, emphasized the system’s significant impact on hospital preparedness.

“Before pa sila maabot diria sa hospital, we will be prepared to receive patients. Ma streamline na nato ang mga pasyente…at the same time, katong mga patients na mas nanginahanglan og atiman diri sa hospital, so mao ra to ang dapat maabot dinhi.”

“Before patients arrive at the hospital, we will already be prepared to receive them. This streamlines patient flow and ensures that those who require immediate medical attention are prioritized,” she said.

PICTO Department Head Joyzel Odi also underscored the accuracy and consistency of patient information under the system.

“Gi-design ni siya aron magcomplement sa mga information systems na gidevelop sa DOH. Number one importance ani is ang recording from barangay hangtod sa RHU hangtod sa hospitals maging consistent na.”

“It was designed to complement the information systems developed by the Department of Health. The key importance is ensuring that records—from barangays to RHUs and hospitals—are consistent and reliable,” she noted.

A simulation exercise (SimEx) was conducted in Barangays Cabidianan and Sta. Maria in Nabunturan to test the system. Following the activity, PICTO and PHO personnel proceeded to DDOPH Montevista, the designated pilot hospital, to validate the integration of the referrals into its system.

At present, only selected barangays have been granted access to the e-referral system due to technological limitations.

However, expansion plans are underway, including possible inter-agency operability in partnership with institutions such as the Davao Regional Medical Center (DRMC) in Tagum City.

Photos by: Albert Dayao / IPRD