Empowering Workers Through Accessible Healthcare: USAID Brings Family Planning to the Workplace
For Myla, a mother of two and an employee at Greenleaf Hotel in General Santos City, balancing work and taking care of her health used to be difficult. "Finding time for healthcare, especially family planning, felt almost impossible," she shared. That changed when her workplace established an onsite clinic offering free services. "Now, it’s so much more convenient. I feel empowered to take control of my reproductive health."
Myla is one of 400,000 workers in General Santos City who benefited from the USAID-supported Family Planning (FP) in the Workplace Program. In collaboration with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Commission on Population and Development, and the Department of Health, the program connects private companies with accredited providers to offer essential family planning services onsite.
The Matching Model: A Practical Solution
Another benefit is that Myla doesn’t have to worry about paying another bill for essential health services. Under the Family Planning in the Workplace Program, almost all her family planning-related medical expenses are covered through PhilHealth.
Historically, many companies in the Philippines have struggled to sustain workplace family planning programs due to high costs. "Even though the government prioritizes the program, many businesses find it challenging," explained Shiela Marie Dumalay, Chief of the Labor and Employment Office at DOLE Region XII. USAID’s support helps bridge these gaps by using the matching model, which pairs companies with accredited health providers, who already offer these services.
"The matching model simplifies access to services and helps employees make informed decisions about their reproductive health without having to leave work," Dumalay added.
Impact and Empowerment Through Family Planning
The USAID-supported Family Planning in the Workplace initiative has reduced absenteeism at work and empowered employees to manage their health effectively.
Dr. Rochelle Gajite Oco, Head of the General Santos City Occupational Safety and Health Compliance Office explained, "Many workers, especially women, now feel confident making reproductive health decisions thanks to the counseling and services available."
Through the Family Planning in the Workplace initiative, women like Myla can now take control of their reproductive health while contributing to their careers. The success of the initiative exemplifies how meaningful access to healthcare can foster healthier individuals, families, and workplaces.
USAID