Bacolod mayor orders CHO to explain X-ray machine issue

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – Mayor Greg Gasataya has directed the City Health Office to explain the situation surrounding the city’s X-ray services following complaints that no functioning X-ray machine is currently available at the CHO.

Gasataya told reporters during the launching of SM Skyhall on Wednesday that based on an initial investigation, the CHO has an X-ray machine, but it is no longer operational.

While exploring the possibility of allocating funds for a replacement, the mayor said he later discovered that the city government had already purchased a new X-ray machine in December last year.

The mayor has since asked CHO officials to clarify why the newly acquired machine has not yet been used.

During his inspection, Gasataya also found that around 14,000 X-ray films had already expired, raising further questions about the management of medical supplies and equipment within the office.

“I have asked the section heads of the CHO to explain why these films were left to expire and what actions can be taken regarding them,” Gasataya said.

According to CHO personnel, the new X-ray machine has not been installed because there is currently no available space for it, as the CHO is undergoing renovations and improvements.

However, Gasataya stressed that this is not a valid reason to suspend public health services, particularly those essential for medical diagnosis.

He has instructed the CHO and the City Engineer’s Office to immediately identify a suitable location where the new X-ray machine can be installed and made operational.

The mayor emphasized the importance of ensuring the continuous delivery of health services to the public.

The reported nonfunctionality of the X-ray machine has caused delays and inconvenience to patients, Gasataya lamented.

Gasataya’s directive forms part of his ongoing push to improve health services in the city and ensure that government-acquired medical equipment is fully utilized for public benefit.