Navigating Medical Assistance: Lived Experiences of Patients at The Malasakit Center

ABSTRACT: This research examined the lived experiences, challenges, and adaptation strategies of caregivers who cared for a patient at the Malasakit Center of Sultan Kudarat Provincial Hospital. The descriptive phenomenological methodology was employed to collect firsthand information from 15 selected participants through a semi-structured interview format, and the data were later analyzed using thematic analysis. The study results confirmed that the center is operating as expected and is an important lifeline for poor and needy families. The respondents were very satisfied with the services provided, particularly the reduction or complete waiver of their hospital bills, and they described the staff as friendly and supportive. Some of the challenges faced included poor internet connectivity, a limited workforce, long waiting times, and language barriers among indigenous peoples, which were seen as growing pains rather than failures. The financial relief, compassion, and hope brought by the center outweighed any difficulties encountered. The main findings of the study highlighted the importance of being patient, proactive, resilient, and supportive of one another throughout the entire visiting process.

KEYWORDS – financial assistance, healthcare access, lived experiences, Malasakit Center, universal health coverage