A few days before New Year’s Day, SM Foundation turned over to the City Government of Caloocan a transformed Barangay 118-120 Health Center, bringing the number of Wellness Centers to 204.

The renovation was made possible through the collaborative efforts of SM Foundation, the Rotary Club of Caloocan, Caloocan City Health Office and the Caloocan local government unit.

Bgy. 118-120 Health Center, regarded by the health center staff and barangay health workers as their second home, is now a comfortable and well-lighted clinic.

Gone are the termite-infested ceilings, the faulty electrical wiring, and malfunctioning light bulbs. These have been replaced with new ones.

Aside from the damaged structure, the health center lacked the necessary equipment and furniture. Health center workers had to make do with worn-out tables and plastic chairs in dispensing their work.

Likewise, prior to the renovation, there was no designated examination room. Examination was done in an area where there was no privacy for the patients, making them uncomfortable and wary of going to the health center.

As with other Wellness Centers across the country, SM Foundation ensured that the Bgy. 118-120 Health Center will be able to provide a conducive atmosphere for both patients and health workers. Walls were repainted with cheerful colors, new furniture and appliances were provided.

According to Dr. Arlyn E. Gonzales, MD, Medical Officer IV and physician in charge in Bgy. 118-120 Health Center, patients admired the newly-refurbished health center.

“Wow, ang ganda na ng center, ang liwanag.” “Nasa St. Luke’s ba ako?” These were among the reactions of patients.

The renovated health center has even encouraged barangay residents to make advance visits for follow-up checkups. There were others who just go to the center for a visit and not necessarily for a health concern.

With the renovation, patients are now more conscious of their hygiene before going for a checkup or consultation.

“It is now a comfortable place to work with good ambience. Health workers are excited to go report for work and happy to serve in the real sense of the word,” Gonzales said.

As she expressed the health center’s appreciation to SM Foundation for the renovation, Gonzales said: “You showed a level of excellence that the City Government of Caloocan greatly appreciates.”

The health center offers an array of services to include medical consultation/checkup, pre-natal/post-natal care, family planning, National Immunization Program, TB-Dots facility, non-communicable diseases program, dental services, nutrition program, and cervical cancer screening, among others.