Laoag, Ilocos Norte – Almost 300 personnel coming from the Newborn Screening Centers (NSCs) across the country and Newborn Screening Reference Center (NSRC) convened for the first time in five years last April 26-28, 2024, at Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel. The NSC Summit event was a venue for the staff to update and exchange information about their current undertakings, and future collaborations. The participants engaged themselves into interactive discussions, and a series of group dynamics that aimed to strengthen team cooperation, communication, and strategy formulation.
Various pep talks were led by the Follow-up Heads of each NSC which included topics such as Mental Health in the Workplace, Coping with Uncertainties at Work and the Community, The Power of Good Communication in the Workplace, Respect in the Workplace, Healthy Eating for Better Productivity, and How to Get Enough Rest and Stay Productive.
These informative and interactive pep talks encouraged participants to share their experiences and engage in discussions. The emphasis on mental health and well-being was especially timely, offering much-needed support in navigating the challenges of their demanding roles. Overall, the pep talks fostered a supportive environment, reinforcing the importance of a holistic approach to workplace health and productivity.
Aside from pep talks, participants engaged in a variety of workshops, combining brainstorming, physical challenges, and healthy competition. This interactive format allowed them to explore teamwork, communication strategies, and effective problem-solving in a fun and collaborative environment.
Personnel who had been serving the newborn screening program for more than 5, 10, 15 and 20 years were given service recognition. Out of the 292 attendees, there are 97 employees awarded with 5 Years Service Awards, 44 with 10 Years Service Awards, 22 with 15 Years Service Awards, and 2 with 20 Years Service Awards. In total, 165 NBS Service Awardees were recognized, a true testament to the passionate and hardworking people who keep NBS a model health program in and out of the country.
NSC-Northern Luzon, operating at Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital, hosted this year’s summit with the theme Rambak, an Ilokano term for Fiesta. Each center also showcased their region’s culture through folk and tribal dances.
The NSC Summit concluded on a high note, leaving participants inspired and motivated. The combination of educational sessions, workshops, and cultural celebrations fostered a sense of unity and shared purpose among the attendees. As they returned to their respective centers, the insights gained and the connections made during the summit are expected to enhance the effectiveness of the newborn screening program nationwide, ensuring better health outcomes for all Filipino newborns.
Barcial, LA.
