The Provincial Government of Abra headed by Gov. Joy Bernos and Provincial Health Office (PHO) coordinated with DOH-Abra to render health services to the 212 inmates of Abra Provincial Jail on June 11, 2019, in observance of National Kidney Month.

Health personnel provided urine screening, skin consultation, sputum examination, and blood testing. They also informed the inmates on the prevention and treatment of renal disease, leprosy, tuberculosis, STI, and HIV-AIDS. PHO also conducted space spraying in the Provincial Jail to prevent the spread of dengue and other vector-borne diseases.

Renal Disease Control Program Coordinator Lilibeth Martin said the inmates are emotionally and physically not healthy. “They are the ones who are in need of health services since they cannot go out and seek medical consultation,” she added.

Health care can also help inmates be more productive while serving time and prepare them to return to society.