Two tele-health quotes

Here are two quotes from my trip to the Batanes, and why I believe making access to specialist care in rural areas should be a priority:

“Last year, my father had chest pains and needed to see a specialist in Manila.  We sold our cows and our land so he could go.  I had to take leave from my job to accompany him.  It turned out to be pneumonia, which could have been diagnosed here.”

– Basco, Batanes

“Our daughter was born with congenital hernia. Surgery was required, but the doctor was able to do the pre-op session use tele-health.  This saved us an additional trip to Manila or a much longer stay. Our daughter is doing very well now!” 

–Ivana, Batanes