In the midst of the risks and challenges that COVID-19 has brought to the country, people living with HIV (PLHIV) have continued to deal with the difficulties of accessing health services, especially during a pandemic.
In this regard, the Commission on Human Rights acknowledges the efforts being made by the Department of Health (DOH) to make sure that health services for PLHIV do not come to a halt.
Despite the pandemic posing a challenge to accessibility, the DOH and its partners from local government units through its Social Hygiene Clinics, public and private HIV treatment facilities, community-based organisations, and advocacy groups are all working together to make sure that HIV prevention, testing, treatment, care, and support services are continuously provided.
DOH also continues to assess and approve the operation of HIV testing labs to help reach more people.
Moreover, as part of the priority COVID-19 vaccination group A3, PLHIV are encouraged by DOH to get vaccinated after getting their medical clearance.
According to Article XIII, Section 11 of the 1987 Constitution, the State shall adopt an integrated and comprehensive approach to health development which shall endeavor to make essential goods, health, and other social services available to all the people at affordable cost.
The commitment of DOH to the health and wellness of PLHIV is attuned to their mission to lead the country in the development of a productive, resilient, equitable, and people-centered health system.
With these continuous efforts, the Commission extends its gratitude and support to DOH and other relevant government agencies for exemplifying the inclusive approach to healthcare we wish to see in the country, one that best caters to the right to health of every Filipino people. (CHR) -jlo
