DTTB doctors appeal DOH directive to deploy them to Cebu City

Physicians participating in the Doctors to the Barrios (DTTB) program have appealed to the Department of Health (DOH) to reconsider their directive to deploy some doctors to Cebu City.

The doctors are demanding an inclusive dialogue with the DOH and other involved parties regarding this decision.

They strongly condemn the directive, citing a lack of prior written notification and proper consultation with stakeholders.

Concerns were raised about the absence of detailed guidelines and protocols to ensure the safety of the doctors during their reassignment.

The physicians highlighted that the directive contradicts the core purpose of the DTTB program, which aims to serve rural and geographically isolated areas.

Deploying DTTBs away from their current posts will negatively impact the healthcare services available to thousands of Filipinos in already marginalized communities.

The doctors emphasized that removing these physicians would worsen existing healthcare access inequities, which the DTTB program was established to address.

The DOH's decision to deploy 40 DTTBs to Cebu City was reportedly due to the area's overwhelmed healthcare system amidst the current health crisis.