MAKATI CITY — Stronger coordination between public health authorities and private medical providers is helping expand tuberculosis (TB) monitoring in Makati, earning the city a 2026 PhilCAT Champions Award for Private Sector Engagement in Mandatory TB Notification. The recognition was given to the Makati Health Department (MHD) during the National Capital Region Excellence Award Ceremony, highlighting the city's efforts to involve private healthcare facilities in the national response to tuberculosis. Through its notification network, the city works with private doctors, clinics, and hospitals to ensure that TB cases diagnosed outside government health facilities are also reported to the appropriate health authorities. This approach strengthens the connection between private medical providers and the local health system, helping make disease monitoring more comprehensive and coordinated.
Building Stronger Public-Private Health Partnerships
The initiative recognizes the important role private healthcare providers play in identifying and reporting TB cases, particularly among patients who initially seek consultations or treatment outside public health facilities. Under Republic Act No. 10767, also known as the Comprehensive Tuberculosis Elimination Plan Act of 2016, public and private healthcare facilities are required to follow national protocols for TB management and notify authorities of diagnosed cases. Makati's engagement with private doctors, clinics, and hospitals supports the implementation of this policy by establishing a coordinated reporting process across different healthcare settings. Through the participation of Private Sector Notification Officers and the Makati National Tuberculosis Program team, the city strengthens communication between providers and public health personnel while supporting more consistent case reporting.
Supporting More Comprehensive TB Care
The recognition also highlights the contributions of healthcare workers, private medical institutions, and partner organizations working to improve tuberculosis prevention and control. By strengthening case notification, the local health system can better account for diagnosed patients and support appropriate follow-up and treatment coordination. The initiative forms part of a broader effort involving the Department of Health, the Philippine Coalition Against Tuberculosis, Philippine Business for Social Progress, and the ACCESS TB Project, whose partnerships support improvements in TB services and private sector participation. Makati's latest recognition underscores how cooperation across healthcare institutions can strengthen public health programs and contribute to the country's continuing efforts to reduce tuberculosis.
