by Jan Michael Carpo, Reporter
mWell, the digital health arm of Metro Pacific Investments Corp. and the Philippines’ first fully integrated, fully digital health and wellness platform, has just launched Southeast Asia’s first medical drone delivery service — a groundbreaking move that promises to revolutionize healthcare accessibility in the country.
The initiative, dubbed “mWell OnTheGo Drone Delivery,” was recently inaugurated in Barangay Niogan, Pilila, Rizal, marking a significant step forward in bringing vital medical resources to remote and underserved communities.
Earlier in 2024, the healthcare technology platform also partnered with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and Huawei to provide telemedicine services to residents of Turtle Islands in Tawi-Tawi.
The company’s pioneering drone delivery program, meanwhile, is driven by its core mission to make health and wellness accessible to all Filipinos, regardless of their location. Recognizing the geographical challenges that often hinder timely access to healthcare, the company has embraced drone technology to bridge the gap between patients and essential medical supplies.
mWell’s pioneering drone delivery program
“Healthcare should never be hampered by distance,” emphasizes Manuel V. Pangilinan, chairman of mWell. “Drones are helping to close the gap between patients and life-saving medications. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about providing assistance to all Filipinos in need.”
Pangilinan’s statement underscores the profound impact this initiative can have on the lives of those living in geographically isolated areas.
Chaye Cabal-Revilla, president and CEO of mWell, highlights the company’s commitment to innovation in healthcare delivery. “This service is in line with our efforts to develop innovative solutions to make health and wellness available to Filipinos anytime, anywhere,” she explains.
“Through drone technology, we can deliver medical supplies to isolated areas and villages of indigenous peoples across the country. Our collaboration with the Department of Information and Communications Technology will enable us to reach even more locations and improve patient outcomes,” she added.
The impetus for mWell’s drone delivery service stemmed from direct feedback received from communities. The adoption of drone technology, while promising, is currently hampered by regulatory barriers. But the company was able to rise above the challenges.
Following consultations, mWell recognized a recurring issue: prescribed medications, even after a teleconsultation with a doctor, were often unavailable at local health centers, particularly in remote areas. This lack of access posed a significant challenge to effective treatment and patient recovery.
Tisha Quinitio, head of mWell business development, elaborates on the company’s response to this critical need. “We considered how to get the medications to these individuals because they live in isolated places,” she explains.
“We want to use drones to deliver medications. Following an mWell teleconsultation, remote locations can receive direct drone delivery of medications with a single tablet click.”
Ensuring patients receive necessary medications quickly
This streamlined process ensures that patients receive the necessary medications quickly and efficiently, eliminating the delays and logistical hurdles that previously hampered access to care.
The launch of mWell OnTheGo Drone Delivery represents a significant advancement in healthcare logistics, particularly for communities situated in challenging terrain or far from established medical facilities.
By leveraging drone technology, mWell is overcoming geographical barriers and bringing essential medical resources directly to those who need them most. This innovative approach not only improves access to medication but also enhances the overall quality of care for patients in remote areas.
This pioneering initiative positions mWell as a leader in the Southeast Asian digital health landscape. By embracing cutting-edge technology and responding directly to community needs, mWell is demonstrating its commitment to transforming healthcare accessibility in the Philippines.
The drone delivery program is not just a technological feat; it is a tangible expression of mWell’s dedication to serving the Filipino people and ensuring that quality healthcare is within reach for everyone, regardless of where they live.
As mWell continues to expand its services and reach, the future of healthcare delivery in the Philippines looks brighter than ever.