HEALING CLOSER TO HOME: DR. CATALINO GALLEGO NAVA MEDICAL CENTER OPENS HEMODIALYSIS UNIT

For many patients, dialysis has meant grueling travel to the city, mounting expenses, and time away from family.

But today, history was made.

On January 19, 2026, the Dr. Catalino Gallego Nava Medical Center (DCGNMC) officially began operations of its Hemodialysis Unit—turning a long-held vision into a life-saving reality.

For 23-year-old Louie from Brgy. Salvacion, Nueva Valencia, the new facility means healing closer to home. For over a year, he traveled to Iloilo City three times a week for dialysis. Today, that journey has changed as he became the first patient to undergo dialysis at DCGNMC.

“Dako gid ni nga bulig sa akon kay sa pamasahe pa lang daan, kag lapit pa sa amon,” he shared.

With the opening of the DCGNMC Hemodialysis Unit, Louie—and many others like him—can now receive the care they need right here on the island.

This milestone is a testament to the heart of Governor Ma. Lucille L. Nava, MD and Congressman JC Rahman A. Nava, MD, who envisioned a province where quality healthcare is accessible to all.

“In line with the Kabataan FIRST Agenda, the Dr. Catalino Gallego Nava Medical Center officially opened its Hemodialysis Center today, marking another milestone in its ongoing upgrading program. The initiative reflects the Provincial Government’s commitment to strengthening health facilities and achieving a more responsive and accessible health care system for Guimarasnons,” shared Governor Nava.

Congressman JC Rahman A. Nava, MD, also emphasized that dialysis services at the center will be provided free of charge to Guimarasnons who need them.

The Hemodialysis Unit currently has 10 machines, with an initial capacity to accommodate up to five patients per session, scheduled every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

“With the support of the Department of Health and PhilHealth accreditation, we are ensuring that this service remains sustainable, accessible, and responsive to the needs of Guimarasnons,” said Congressman Nava.

Here’s how to avail of the hemodialysis service at DCGNMC.

Patients may inquire at the DCGNMC Hemodialysis Unit for the list of requirements. Once all requirements are completed, these will be checked and verified by the unit, after which the patient will be scheduled and issued an admission slip.

On the scheduled day of dialysis, the patient should proceed to the Outpatient Department (OPD) for recording, presenting the admission slip and OPD card. After registration, the patient will proceed to the Hemodialysis Unit and wait to be called.

Only one companion or ‘bantay’ is allowed during the treatment session. The companion is also responsible for processing necessary documents, such as PhilHealth (PHIC) form signatures and other pertinent papers.

For succeeding dialysis sessions, stable OPD patients may proceed directly to the Hemodialysis Unit on their assigned schedule, as OPD registration will no longer be required. Patients who are unstable or in emergency conditions must immediately proceed to the admitting section for urgent medical attention.