San Jose De Buenavista Antique, July 28 -- The Provincial Board here is pushing the improvement of Antique's eight district hospitals, which currently lack basic equipment, facilities and medicines. "Our hospitals are supposed to be our last hope during emergencies and illnesses. But what is happening now is that many of our hospitals lack medical equipment and medicines in the pharmacy. Patients are forced to go to private hospitals or even travel to Iloilo to get the test and treatment they need," said Board Member Joseph Eugene Alojipan in a privileged speech during their regular session on Monday.

He also cited the shortage of doctors in some fields, especially during emergencies.

Alojipan will invite the chiefs of hospitals to t...