R1MC set to complete major expansion this year
THE Region 1 Medical Center (R1MC) in Dagupan City is on track in completing its main building expansion this year, bringing much-needed relief to patients and healthcare staff alike, said Dr. Roland Joseph Mejia, the hospital’s director.
Mejia said, the new seven-story building will not only increase the hospital’s capacity from its current 600 beds to 1,500, but will include specialized wards, a surgical operating room, a delivery room, and private rooms for those who can afford additional comfort. There will also be dedicated spaces for emergency room, information area, and lounge, on the first floor.
The expansion includes plans for additional private rooms to meet the demand for personalized care, in line with the Department of Health’s guidelines under the Universal Healthcare Law. Private rooms will account for 10% of the total capacity, which translates to 150 rooms.
Mejia noted that the hospital expansion faced delays due to the pandemic, which halted construction for over four years. However, the project is now on Phase 4, covering the 5th through 7th floors and he expressed optimism that the hospital would be able to begin using the new facilities by December 2025.
“We’re hopeful that by the end of this year, our province-mates who need hospitalization will finally benefit from these new services,” he said. “This new building will be the largest in North Luzon, surpassing even the original structure built in 1982.”
R1MC has also requested additional personnel to meet the increased demands of the larger facility. The current workforce of 2,400 will soon grow to approximately 3,700 staff members, including doctors, nurses, and support personnel.
In addition to the main building, the hospital is also planning for future growth. The construction of a second tower will provide additional intensive care unit (ICU) space, more private rooms, and multi-level parking.
Meanwhile, Mejia confirmed that the hospital had already secured the budget for Phase 4, but additional funding will be needed to complete the final phases of the construction. (Eva Visperas)
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