Report New BUCAS Center Opens in Manila to Enhance Healthcare Access

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In a significant move to improve healthcare accessibility for underserved communities, a new Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Services (BUCAS) Center has been inaugurated in Manila. This outpatient clinic is the result of a partnership between the Department of Health (DOH) and San Miguel Corporation (SMC) through its San Miguel Foundation, Inc. (SMF).

 

The BUCAS Center is located at the San Miguel Foundation’s Better World Smokey Mountain facility in Tondo, Manila, and operates in collaboration with the Tondo Medical Center (TMC). It aims to deliver essential outpatient services to the local community, allowing patients to receive free consultations and most laboratory examinations under PhilHealth coverage.

 

Building on the success of the first privately-supported BUCAS Center at Better World Clinic in Cubao, Quezon City, this new facility represents a continued commitment to broadening healthcare access. Last year’s establishment in Cubao was in partnership with the Quirino Memorial Medical Center (QMMC).

 

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa has championed the BUCAS program as part of his “28 for 28 by 28” initiative, which seeks to create 28 urgent care centres serving 28 million Filipinos by 2028. This initiative is designed to alleviate strain on the healthcare system by providing quicker access to minor procedures and essential medical services.

 

 

 

In addition, the BUCAS Center offers PhilHealth Konsulta Packages, with TMC medical personnel providing services. For any lab tests not covered by PhilHealth, patients can either pay out of pocket or seek assistance through the Malasakit Center.

 

The BUCAS Center at Better World Smokey Mountain is open every Monday and Tuesday, while the Center at Better World Clinic-Cubao operates Tuesdays and Wednesdays, with dermatology consultations twice a month.

 

Appointments can be scheduled at the Better World Clinic Cubao, and PhilHealth Konsulta Package enrollment is available by contacting PhilHealth Corporation Action Center.

 

SMC Chairman and CEO Ramon S. Ang highlighted the crucial role of BUCAS Centers in offering timely medical attention, addressing the challenge faced by many Filipinos who endure long waits for healthcare due to an overwhelmed system. "It’s an opportunity for our Better World facilities to make healthcare more accessible," Ang noted, ensuring that essential medical services are accessible to those in need without delay.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2025-04-28