Dr. George T. Hofer Medical Center Concludes IPC Week, Honors Excellence in Infection Prevention and Patient Education

Daphne Santuyo

Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay — The Dr. George T. Hofer Medical Center (DGTHMC) successfully concluded its Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Week 2026 with a meaningful closing program that celebrated creativity, recognized outstanding healthcare workers, and reaffirmed the hospital's commitment to patient safety and quality healthcare.

The week-long observance culminated in the awarding of winners in the Poster and Slogan Making and Short Film Making competitions, highlighting the creativity and commitment of participants in promoting the importance of infection prevention and control within healthcare facilities and the community.

Hospital officials commended the Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Committee for spearheading the successful conduct of the celebration, recognizing the committee's dedication and hard work in organizing activities that strengthened awareness of infection prevention practices among healthcare workers, patients, and the public.

Participants in the various competitions were likewise recognized for using their talents and creativity to promote health education and reinforce the importance of maintaining a safe and healthy hospital environment.

A significant part of the celebration also highlighted the hospital's continuing Health Education Program at the Out-Patient Department (OPD), where healthcare professionals conducted information sessions to help patients and their families better understand disease prevention, proper hygiene, and other essential health practices.

Hospital management expressed its appreciation to the doctors, nurses, and other staff members who served as lecturers and facilitators throughout the week, acknowledging their invaluable contribution in ensuring that patients and clients receive accurate and timely health information while availing themselves of medical services.

The closing program also paid tribute to the hospital's Emergency Room (ER) nurses, who were honored for their exemplary performance, professionalism, and unwavering dedication in delivering quality emergency care despite the demanding nature of their work.

According to hospital officials, the observance of IPC Week goes beyond a week of activities, serving as a continuing reminder that infection prevention is a shared responsibility among healthcare providers, patients, and the community. Strengthening awareness and adherence to infection control protocols remains essential in reducing healthcare-associated infections and ensuring safer healthcare services.

The hospital emphasized that initiatives such as IPC Week form part of its continuing efforts to build a culture of patient safety, excellence in healthcare delivery, and public health awareness.

These initiatives also support the broader vision of the Provincial Government of Zamboanga Sibugay, under the leadership of Governor Ann K. Hofer, of maintaining safe, resilient, and patient-centered healthcare facilities while promoting healthier and more productive communities throughout the province.