PASAY CITY – The Philippine National Clubfoot Program, led by the Philippine NGO Council on Population, Health and Welfare Inc. (PNGOC) in partnership with MiracleFeet, continues its mission to transform lives by providing free treatment for children born with clubfoot. With an estimated five to six Filipino babies born with the condition daily, this initiative addresses a critical healthcare gap by ensuring access to life-changing care.
Clubfoot is a congenital condition where one or both feet are rotated inward and downward, making walking painful or impossible without treatment. The program, established in 2018, has already treated over 5,000 children, giving them the opportunity to lead lives free from disability.
Making treatment accessible
The program operates through a network of 33 partner clinics and hospitals nationwide, offering free treatment and medical support. Beyond treatment, it focuses on raising awareness about the condition and advocating for policies that make treatment more accessible, such as recent policy efforts in Pasig City.
Despite free care, many families face challenges such as travel expenses and lack of information. PNGOC and MiracleFeet tackle these issues through outreach efforts, including social media campaigns and community programs like the Early Detection and Referral Program for Clubfoot.
Overcoming challenges and creating impact
Awareness remains a significant hurdle, with many families unaware that clubfoot is both treatable and affordable. PhilHealth’s limited coverage for clubfoot-related treatments poses additional barriers. The program addresses these gaps by advocating for better health policies and building partnerships to support families.
Through its efforts, the Philippine National Clubfoot Program aims to give every Filipino child born with clubfoot access to comprehensive care, ensuring they grow up to walk, run, and play like other children.
Looking ahead
The program envisions a future where every child with clubfoot in the Philippines receives timely treatment, regardless of their location or financial circumstances. With ongoing support from individuals, organizations, and policymakers, the program is committed to expanding its reach and making treatments even more affordable.
