THE new government-run Conrado F. Estrella Regional Medical and Trauma Center (CFERMTC) in Rosales has been helping address medical service shortages not just in Pangasinan but the nearby provinces of Nueva Ecija and Tarlac as well.

Dr. Emerson Patawaran, CFERMTC chief, said it is one of the Department of Health’s newest hospitals and it is a Level 2 facility with a 103-bed capacity. However, the hospital is currently serving between 180 and 200 patients.

“This is a significant step towards improving the health of Filipinos,” said Patawaran, “Here at the hospital, we are not just focused on basic needs. We now have specialized units such as an ICU, pediatric and neonatal ICU, and high-risk pregnancy units. This is a great help for patients, especially for premature infants, who no longer need to be transferred to BGH (Baguio General Hospital) or R1MC (Region 1 Medical Center).”

CFERMTC is also equipped with a 128-slice CT scan and a 1.5 Tesla MRI, and the opening of their Eye Center is expected this February.

The hospital chief said there are already plans to expand the hospital to a 300-bed capacity and the construction of a Cancer Center.

Patawaran said around 70-80% of their patients come from Pangasinan and the rest are from neighboring provinces. Besides regular services, the hospital also offers a free anti-rabies treatment.

“Our goal is not only to serve but to provide high-quality healthcare to every Filipino, especially those who cannot afford to pay,” he said.

One of the main advocates for the hospital was Secretary Conrado Estrella III, a former congressman, who pushed for the establishment of a facility in the town, which was realized through a law signed by former President Rodrigo Duterte in 2021. (Eva Visperas)

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