In a dynamic initiative to bridge classroom learning with real-world application, first-year medical students from Pines City Colleges (PCC) embarked on an insightful visit to the Department of Health – Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH-CAR) on February 28, 2025.
This academic activity was organized to immerse students in the operations of one of the country’s primary health institutions, highlighting the crucial role of the Department of Health (DOH) in shaping the nation’s healthcare system. Leading the orientation were Dr. Shelly Aral, Medical Officer IV, and Ms. Geeny Anne Austria, Nurse V of DOH-CAR. The students were accompanied by Dr. Donnabel Panes, a faculty member from Pines City Colleges – School of Medicine (PCC-SOM). A focal point of the visit was a comprehensive overview of the DOH’s role in Public Health Management, where the agency is positioned as a steward of national health.
Students were introduced to the DOH’s key operational clusters, showcasing how the department manages a wide array of responsibilities (from policy development to direct service delivery) while emphasizing the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration and responsive health governance. The visit also underscored the DOH’s strategic vision and future goals, as outlined in the National Objectives for Health (NOH) 2023–2028. The students learned about the Eight (8) Priority Health Outcomes, which aim to address critical public health challenges such as stunting, maternal deaths, and access to clean water. In addition, the DOH’s move toward digital transformation—through interoperable Electronic Medical Records (EMRs)—was discussed, highlighting its potential to enhance data sharing while ensuring patient privacy.
This strategic direction is rooted in the DOH’s long-term vision: “Filipinos are among the healthiest people in Asia by 2040.” Students saw how these goals translate into action through flagship projects like the Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Services (BUCAS) centers, which aim to bring accessible urgent care to underserved areas. For the PCC first-year medical students, the visit was a unique and an eye-opening experience. It not only deepened their understanding of the DOH’s organizational structure but also broadened their appreciation of how social, economic, and political factors influence health. The activity illuminated the true scope of public health—extending far beyond clinical care to include policymaking, resource allocation, community empowerment, and the pursuit of health equity.
This early exposure to health systems not only enriches their academic foundation but also fosters a growing sense of civic responsibility. As future physicians, these students are now better prepared to advocate for reforms, support universal health care, and contribute meaningfully to community-based initiatives. Furthermore, the collaboration between PCC’s School of Medicine and DOH-CAR stands as a testament to the value of integrative learning in medical education. It reinforces the idea that every health worker, community member, and institution play a vital role in achieving the shared vision of a healthier Philippines. As Ms. Austria emphasized during the orientation, “Public health is not just a career path — it is a calling to serve, educate, and lead.” For these aspiring doctors, the visit was more than an academic requirement—it was a glimpse into the kind of health leadership the country needs. #SchoolofMedicine
