Status of Health Care Services in Public Elementary Schools inthe District of Cabuyao: A Basis for School Health Care Program

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Health is viewed as an essential component of all current K-12 Basic Education Curriculum program in the entire Philippines. There is an international saying that health is wealth. Teachers, school administrators, school health workers, parents and researchers support the idea that healthy students learn better. When a student arrives at school fed, rested, calm, and unworried they are ready to learn. Research showed that education is linked to academic achievement and health. Therefore, a localized study on the health care services among schools is a must. Health services and programs help assess, preserve, and promote student health. These services include ensuring access or referrals to primary health care services, preventing and controlling the spread of communicable diseases and other health conditions, adopting and enforcing a safe school environment, and providing educational and counselling opportunities for promoting individual, family, and community health (NCCDPHP, 2008).

METHODS

The study aimed to assess the status of health care services in public elementary schools in the Division of Cabuyao during school year 2016-2017 utilizing the descriptive evaluative design. The status of health care service/programs in public elementary schools described in terms of specific health care services provided. Survey questionnaires supported by unstructured interview were the data collection techniques. The survey technique, in-depth interviews and Focus Grouped Discussions (FGD) were conducted with the school health care workers.

RESULTS

Enhancement program will be made possible by formation, implementation and assessment of various modalities and delivery forms of school health related interventions which schools can be formed through committees to be grouped into following categories: (1) School Health Environment, (2) School Health Education, (3) School Health Services, and (4) School Nutrition Program Committee.

DISCUSSIONS

Based on the findings of the study, the following are recommended: (1) Create or improve the health care programs among public elementary schools; (2) Conduct health care training/seminars among public elementary schools; (3) Conduct first aid trainings at least twice per school year among public elementary schools; (4) Close monitoring of the health status of teaching and non-teaching staff is being suggested; and (5) Completion of the medicines and facilities needed to provide for an effective and efficient health care programs among public elementary schools.