Laoag, Ilocos Norte – Around 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 on April 26-28, 2024 at the Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel. The NSC Summit was a venue for the staff to update and exchange information about their current undertakings and future collaborations. The participants engaged in interactive discussions and group dynamics that aimed to strengthen team cooperation, communication, and strategy formulation.
Various pep talks were led by the NSC follow-up heads 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.
The informative and interactive pep talks encouraged the 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, the participants engaged in a variety of workshops, such as 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, 97 employees were recognized for five years of service, 44 for 10 years of service, 22 with 15 years of service, and 2 for 20 years of service. The tribute to all 165 NBS service awardees is a testament to the passion and hardwork of the people who keep the NBS a model health program in and out of the country.
The NSC-Northern Luzon at the Mariano Marcos Memorial Hospital hosted this year’s summit with the theme Rambak, an Ilokano term for fiesta. Each center also showcased its region’s culture through folk and tribal dances.
Barcial, LA
