By Dr. Juan “Jim” Sanchez
In many parts of the Philippines, quality healthcare remains out of reach for thousands of families. Distance, poverty, and lack of medical facilities often stand between patients and the treatment they desperately need.
This is where Hospital On Wheels (HOW) comes in.
I am Dr. Juan “Jim” Sanchez—also known as Doctor HOW—founder of the Hospital On Wheels. Since 2007, our mission has been simple yet powerful: to bring hospital-level care directly to communities that need it most.
What Is Hospital On Wheels?
Hospital On Wheels is a mobile medical and surgical mission program that delivers free, high-quality healthcare to underserved areas across the country.
Launched on September 17, 2007, in Quezon City, HOW has since traveled nationwide—mostly in Luzon—serving both rural and urban poor communities.
We believe that healthcare is a right, not a privilege. No one should suffer or die simply because they are poor, far from a hospital, or unable to afford treatment.
Our Impact at a Glance
Source: Hospital On Wheels-HOWThrough the dedication of our volunteers and partners, HOW has achieved:
• 431 medical missions since 2007
• Over 40,000 life-changing surgeries performed
• Thousands of families served across the Philippines
Every number represents a life changed—and often, a life saved.
What We Do in Every Mission
On average, we conduct two missions each month, serving 1,000 to 1,500 patients in a single day. All services are provided completely free of charge.
Medical Care
Source: Hospital On Wheels-HOW• Around 400 patients receive consultations, treatment, and health education.
Surgical Services
About 150 surgeries per mission, under our program:
“Operation Tanggal Bukol, Luslos, Bingot, Atbp.”
(Tumors, Hernia, Cleft Lip, and More)
These include:
• Tumor Removal – From small cysts to large tumors, with immediate reconstruction when needed
• Hernia Repair (Luslos) – Especially inguinal hernias
• Cleft Lip Repair (Bingot) – Including revisions and nasal corrections
• Other Corrective Surgeries – For congenital and acquired deformities
Patients range from 1 year old and above.
Dental Services
• Around 300 patients receive tooth extractions and basic dental care.
Vision Care
• Around 400 patients undergo eye screening and receive free reading glasses.
Why We Do It
Source: Hospital On Wheels-HOWBehind every surgery, consultation, and treatment is a human story—a mother who can work again, a child who can smile without fear, a father who no longer lives in pain.
Our mission is simple:
To change lives, one patient at a time.
We do this not for recognition, but out of compassion and commitment to serve.
Together, We Can Reach More
Hospital On Wheels exists because of the generosity of volunteers, donors, partner organizations, and communities who believe in the power of service.
This column, Doctor HOW, will share real stories of hope, healing, and transformation—from the patients whose lives were changed, and from the healthcare workers who serve selflessly.
Together, we can continue bringing healing to those who need it most.
Hospital On Wheels
Changing lives, one mission at a time.
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Contact Information
Dr. Juan “Jim” Sanchez
Founder & Head, Hospital On Wheels
Room 402, Pacific Century Tower
402 Quezon Avenue, Brgy. South Triangle
Quezon City 1103, Philippines
Mobile: +63 918 937 7415
Email: jimsanchez_ph@yahoo.com
Website: https://thehospitalonwheels.org/
