Abra gives elderlies free hospitalization

BANGUED, Abra – The provincial government is sponsoring free hospitalization for senior citizens in celebration of National Elderly Week.
Through the provincial government’s “Yakap kay lola at lolo” program, Provincial Health Officer Antonio Valera said the provincial government came up with the program exclusively to senior citizens because based on the findings of the provincial hospital, most of the patients were senior citizens.
Valera said elders who are not receiving a monthly pension are the priority of the program.
The provincial government will shoulder all the expenses of a senior citizen who would be admitted at the provincial hospital within seven days. These include the hospitalization bill, doctor’s professional fee, laboratory tests, medicines, meals, and other services.
To avail of the benefits, senior citizens must secure a health card from the Governor’s Office and present it at the provincial hospital.
During the orientation program on how to attain a healthy lifestyle to live longer organized by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, Provincial Agriculturist Expedito Villarus discussed food necessities and productive activities for senior citizens.
The country is observing National Elderly Week this month with the theme, “Healthy and productive aging starts with me,” which primarily promotes a healthy and stress-free life for senior citizens. – Christian Tubadeza