By Nimfa Estrellado The first hospital-based Human Milk Hub at the Quezon Province Hospital Network - Quezon Medical Center (QPHN-QMC) that ...
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| The first hospital-based Human Milk Hub at the Quezon Province Hospital Network - Quezon Medical Center (QPHN-QMC) that was opened recently aims to provide a sustainable solution for breastfeeding mothers in the province by establishing a full-fledged milk bank. (Photo from Doktora Helen Tan) |
>LUCENA CITY, Quezon - Many breastfeeding mothers in Quezon struggle to produce enough milk for their babies, often resorting to traveling to Manila to obtain breast milk. In a recent groundbreaking move to support infant nutrition and address these challenges, Quezon Province opened its first hospital-based Human Milk Hub at the Quezon Province Hospital Network - Quezon Medical Center (QPHN-QMC).
The initiative, spearheaded by Quezon Governor Anglina "Doktora Helen" Tan, aims to provide critical access to breast milk for infants in need while offering a safe and convenient space for mothers to donate their excess milk. The long-term vision is to expand the facility beyond a hub, establishing it as a full-fledged Human Milk Bank, ensuring even faster and more efficient access to this life-saving resource for vulnerable infants.
She emphasized the difficulties these mothers face and how the hub will serve as a vital resource, offering a safe and convenient space for both the donation and distribution of breast milk. "Many mothers in our province face the heartbreaking reality of not being able to provide enough breast milk for their babies, this Human Milk Hub is our answer to their plight, offering a beacon of hope and support.
"The hub is open to walk-ins, and organizers stress the importance of widespread information dissemination about the facility and its services. We want every mother who needs help and every mother who can donate to know that we are here for them," Tan added.
She also said they welcome partnerships with NGOs and private organizations who share our commitment to infant nutrition. Gov. Tan emphasized the importance of community involvement in ensuring the success of the Human Milk Hub. She encouraged collaboration with various sectors to reach as many mothers and donors as possible.
The new Human Milk Hub will serve as a vital resource for these families in need, providing support and education on the benefits of breastfeeding and access to donor milk. With the help of the community, we aim to make a significant impact on infant nutrition and maternal health in our region.
The hub is open to walk-ins, and organizers stress the importance of widespread information dissemination about the facility and its services to reach as many potential donors and recipients as possible. Furthermore, Gov. Tan stated that they are open to partnerships with other NGOs and private organizations who share the vision of providing adequate nutrition for infants in need.
To ensure the safety and quality of donated milk, potential donors undergo a thorough screening process to confirm their health and eligibility. Only milk from healthy mothers is accepted, and it undergoes rigorous pasteurization procedures to eliminate any potential contaminants.
QPHN-QMC, a certified mother-baby friendly hospital, sees approximately 7,000 patients annually, including infants requiring breast milk. Dr. Augustina Cabangon, Pediatric Department Head, highlighted the importance of the hub in providing crucial support to babies separated from their mothers due to illness or other circumstances.
She said that the milk bank plays a vital role in ensuring these infants receive the necessary nutrients and antibodies for their growth and development. Additionally, she emphasized the significance of community support in donating breast milk to help save the lives of vulnerable newborns.
"The milk bank at our hospital relies on the generosity of lactating mothers who are willing to donate their excess breast milk. Donated breast milk undergoes strict screening and pasteurization processes to ensure its safety for consumption by premature or sick babies in need. " she added.
Currently, the facility operates in partnership with the Batangas Medical Center Human Milk Bank. Donated milk undergoes further processing at the Batangas facility before being returned to QPHN-QMC for distribution.
However, the future Human Milk Bank would streamline this process, allowing for on-site collection, processing, storage, and distribution, reducing reliance on external facilities, and ensuring the timely availability of safe and nutritious milk for infants in critical need.
Tan expressed confidence in this vision, underscoring the critical role of breast milk in providing infants with the best possible start in life, stating, "This human milk hub will serve as a facility to make sure that every child will have access to this vital nutrient no matter what the circumstances. We cannot underestimate the importance of breastmilk; it serves as a strong nutrient to equip our children to fight life."
In addition to the Human Milk Hub, Quezon Province is actively expanding access to healthcare through various initiatives. Recently, over 50 dialysis patients from different towns received free AV Fistula procedures during a two-day caravan at Quezon Medical Center.
An Arteriovenous Fistula or AV Fistula is a surgical procedure performed to connect an artery (vessel that carries oxygenated blood) and a vein (vessel that carries blood without oxygen) to provide access for blood to be cleaned in patients undergoing hemodialysis.
Dr. Emmanuel Lacandulo and his fellow doctors led the caravan, providing crucial information to patients about post-surgery care, including dos and don'ts. The discussions concluded on September 6th, ensuring all patients received comprehensive guidance.
Gov. Tan expressed her sincere gratitude to the doctors who worked together to make the caravan possible, presenting them with Certificates of Appreciation. STAN Rescue and Ambulance also played a key role by providing transportation, alleviating the financial burden of travel for these patients.
Furthermore, a Cataract Caravan restored sight to 48 individuals from remote areas, with STAN Ambulance once again offering crucial transport services. These specialized caravans, along with ongoing medical and dental missions, highlight the province's dedication to reaching underserved populations and ensuring equitable healthcare access.
Recognizing Excellence in Maternal and Child Health
In a further boost to healthcare services, several Rural Health Units and QPHN hospitals were honored with the Gawad Award for their outstanding Responsible Parenting Programs. “Let's continue to raise the importance of health services for every mother and baby. Because the well-being of women is the well-being of the Filipino family," emphasized Governor Tan.
She added, “Our constant challenge is to achieve zero maternal and infant mortality in the entire province. No one will be left behind, we must continue to bring health services closer to every Quezonian.”
These combined efforts, from specialized medical caravans to the establishment of the Human Milk Hub and the recognition of excellence in maternal and child health programs, demonstrate Quezon Province's unwavering commitment to improving healthcare access and outcomes for all its residents, creating a comprehensive and compassionate healthcare system.
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