These improvements, due to improved social conditions, are also the result,
at least in part, of a health system with modern technologies. Public health
interventions delivered by government health services have penetrated
most areas of the country. Sophisticated curative interventions are available
in major metropolitan areas, especially in a dominant private health sector
Nevertheless, for many Filipinos, health services have remained less
than adequate. This is evidenced by a slowing in the rate of health
improvements like children’s morbidity and mortality. Maternal mortality
ratios have remained unacceptably high. The prevalence of most
communicable diseases continues to be high and requires continuous
attention.
In addition, the Philippines’ health sector faces increasing challenges from
emerging new communicable diseases, such as the changing influenza
patterns and the dangerously increasing threat of an HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Also, non-communicable diseases associated with lifestyle changes of
modern living are steadily growing in importance, as illustrated by diabetes,
cardiovascular disorders and cancers, which have continuously increased
in incidence and prevalence. This is reflected in the present mortality and
morbidity patterns.