DOH Urges Declaration of HIV as National Public Health Emergency: A Wake-Up Call for Employee Health Programs

National HIV Emergency & Workforce Implications 

The Department of Health (DOH) is recommending that HIV be declared a national public health emergency, citing a 500% increase in youth cases—a demographic that includes a growing number of young professionals entering the workforce. 

With over 143,000 reported HIV cases and projections of 215,000 by end-2024, this public health crisis has direct implications for employee wellness, productivity, and healthcare costs across the corporate sector. 

Why Employers Should Act 

HIV is no longer just a personal issue—it’s a workplace concern. Undiagnosed or unmanaged cases among employees can lead to: 

• Absenteeism due to illness 

• Increased insurance and medical costs 

• Stigma that affects morale and team cohesion 

Companies must recognize the importance of proactive screening and education within their occupational health programs. 

ActiveOne Health: Corporate HIV Screening & Wellness Services 

ActiveOne Health provides comprehensive health screening solutions tailored for corporate clients, helping businesses safeguard employee health while complying with occupational health standards. 

Their services include: 

• Annual physicals & HIV testing 

• Pre-employment health assessments 

• Executive check-ups 

• Over 100 clinic partners nationwide 

• Online scheduling, results access, and data security 

Explore more at ActiveOne Health Screening. 

Conclusion: Protecting Employees Starts with Early Detection 

With the youth—many of whom are in the workforce—at the center of the HIV surge, now is the time for employers to integrate HIV awareness and screening into employee health programs. It not only saves lives but also fosters a more resilient, informed, and supported work environment. Reach out to us today at inquire@activeonehealth.com.ph