Hagåtña, Guam — Acting Governor Josh Tenorio has renewed the Government of Guam’s long-standing partnership with St. Luke’s Medical Center in the Philippines, further strengthening the network of care available to Guam residents seeking specialized medical treatment off-island. At a signing ceremony held Thursday, Acting Governor Tenorio emphasized the importance of these partnerships in addressing Guam’s ongoing healthcare challenges, particularly the lack of specialty services locally.
“While Guam continues to expand local capacity through the Guam Memorial Hospital and public health, the reality is that many of our people still need access to specialized care that isn’t available here,” said Acting Governor Tenorio. “This renewed MOU with St. Luke’s ensures more affordable, accessible options for our patients, especially those traveling on medical referral. With thousands of Guam residents going to the Philippines each year for care, and the majority choosing St. Luke’s, this partnership is vital.”
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) renewal with the Government of Guam maintains a direct referral pathway between the Medical Referral Office and St. Luke’s Medical Center, allowing patients, many of whom are supported by public health funding, to receive specialized treatment in Manila.
Additionally, the Guam Memorial Hospital Authority (GMHA) renewed its MOU with St. Luke’s to foster greater clinical collaboration and help facilitate continuity of care for patients navigating complex medical journeys. St. Luke’s Medical Center President and CEO, Dr. Dennis Serrano, joined the ceremony and underscored the deeper value of the partnership.
“This relationship goes beyond business,” Dr. Serrano said. “It’s about compassion, continuity, and trust. Over the years, we’ve worked with the Government of Guam to ensure not only access to care for patients, but also opportunities to share expertise and explore clinical partnerships that benefit both systems.”
Guam Memorial Hospital CEO Lillian Perez-Posadas added, “This partnership has always been personal,” said Perez-Posadas. “Our patients get the help they need, and our teams work hand-in-hand to ensure continuity of care from Guam to Manila. That collaboration has made a difference for so many families.”
The event also highlighted the historic and cultural ties between Guam and the Philippines, which continue to shape healthcare, education, and workforce development efforts on the island.
“From nurses who helped build our medical system to the current generation of healthcare professionals, the Philippines has always been part of Guam’s healing journey,” added Acting Governor Tenorio. “Today’s MOUs are a continuation of that tradition and a reaffirmation of our commitment to helping families get the care they need, without unnecessary hardship.”
To watch the MOU signing in its entirety, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XPfHODp8Ym0.
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