Tag:

DOH

DOH Offers Free Medical Services Nationwide – Marcos Birthday

by Emma Walker – News Editor September 13, 2025

written by Emma Walker – News Editor

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Health (DOH) conducted a nationwide deployment of free medical services saturday, marking President Ferdinand Marcos‌ Jr.’s ⁤birthday⁤ with⁤ expanded ‌healthcare access for Filipinos.

All 83 DOH hospitals, typically closed on Saturdays, opened their outpatient departments to provide free consultations, laboratory tests, and a wide ⁣array of medical services. the initiative aimed to deliver a “gift to the Filipino‌ people,” according to ‌the DOH, addressing immediate⁣ health needs and⁣ promoting preventative ⁤care. This nationwide effort underscores the Marcos management’s commitment to strengthening⁣ public health⁣ infrastructure and ensuring equitable access to essential medical services,especially for ⁢vulnerable populations who may face financial barriers to healthcare. ⁢

DOH Assistant ‌Secretary ‌Albert Domingo confirmed the nationwide scope of ‌the program, stating, “If you are visiting the outpatient services of DOH hospitals, this will be⁣ provided to you⁣ for free. Particularly today, September⁤ 13th. And this is nationwide.”

The medical missions encompassed⁣ a comprehensive suite⁣ of services, including general⁣ and specialist consultations, laboratory ⁤and imaging tests such as chest x-rays and ultrasounds,‌ screenings for cancer, tuberculosis, and ⁤HIV, family⁣ planning services, immunization and deworming programs, dental care, mental health assessments, and ⁣wellness services like acupuncture, massage, pedicure, and haircuts. Additionally, the DOH distributed assistive devices including wheelchairs, canes, crutches, and walkers.

September 13, 2025 0 comments

News

19 DOH hospitals open fast lanes as Leptospirosis cases surge

by David Harrison – Chief Editor August 9, 2025

written by David Harrison – Chief Editor

Manila Hospitals Brace for Leptospirosis Surge

All Metro Manila DOH Facilities Activate Fast Lanes Amidst Flood Aftermath

Metro Manila’s healthcare system is on high alert as 19 Department of Health-accredited hospitals have launched specialized leptospirosis fast lanes. This proactive measure addresses a significant increase in cases following weeks of persistent, rain-induced flooding across the region.

Emergency Services Strained

The Philippine General Hospital (PGH) and Ospital ng Maynila have temporarily suspended emergency services due to an overwhelming influx of patients. These dedicated fast lanes are designed to provide immediate consultation, diagnosis, and treatment for individuals exposed to floodwaters, a common vector for the bacterial infection.

Leptospirosis Cases Climb

From June 8 to August 7, the DOH recorded a total of 2,396 leptospirosis cases nationwide, with a substantial concentration within Metro Manila. This surge highlights the public health challenges following recent weather events.

Marikina Hospital on High Alert

The Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center (ARMMC) in Marikina has activated its emergency command system in anticipation of further rainfall and flooding. Medical Center Chief Dr. **Imelda Mateo** reported 38 current leptospirosis patients, including four children and 13 adults undergoing dialysis.

“We cater to any Filipino citizen who needs medicine, as long as it’s in the Philippine National Drug Formulary.”

—Dr. Imelda Mateo, Medical Center Chief

ARMMC maintains stable supplies, with approximately 10,000 doxycycline capsules available for prophylaxis. The hospital also offers free medication to indigent patients from outside Marikina with a valid prescription, prioritizing any Filipino in need according to national drug formulary guidelines.

Pasig Facility Expands Capacity

In Pasig City, the Rizal Memorial Medical Center has repurposed hallways and non-medical areas to accommodate moderate to severe leptospirosis cases. Dr. **Vincent Moderez**, Chairman of the Emergency Medicine Department, noted 11 admitted patients and 32 suspected cases in the emergency room. Consultations and treatments for leptospirosis are provided free of charge under the hospital’s zero-balance billing policy.

San Lazaro Hospital Reports Deaths

San Lazaro Hospital in Manila has admitted 124 moderate to severe leptospirosis patients, with 14 fatalities recorded. Medical Center Chief Dr. **Rontgene Solante** stressed the critical importance of early medical intervention.

“Leptospirosis can be deadly, but it is preventable. If you’ve been exposed to floodwater and develop a fever, seek medical care immediately.”

—Dr. Rontgene Solante, Medical Center Chief

These facilities are also distributing prophylactic doxycycline to individuals at high risk, requiring a valid prescription for dispensing. The DOH advises that leptospirosis symptoms can manifest up to 30 days post-exposure, urging continued vigilance among the public in the weeks following flood events.

The World Health Organization reports that leptospirosis, a zoonotic disease, can lead to severe health complications including kidney failure and meningitis, emphasizing the need for prompt treatment (Source: WHO).

August 9, 2025 0 comments

News

Leptospirosis Cases Rise: Senator Go Urges DOH Action

by Emma Walker – News Editor August 8, 2025

written by Emma Walker – News Editor

Leptospirosis Cases Surge Across Philippines, Prompting Health Alert & Calls for Expanded PhilHealth Coverage

MANILA, Philippines – A significant increase in leptospirosis cases is raising alarm across the Philippines, with the Department of Health (DOH) reporting over 3,000 confirmed infections nationwide as of July 19th, including a sharp rise during the early weeks of the rainy season. The surge is straining hospital resources and prompting calls for improved access to treatment and preventative measures.

Understanding Leptospirosis: A Persistent Public Health Threat

Leptospirosis is a bacterial infection spread through the urine of infected animals, most commonly rats. Humans contract the disease through contact with water or soil contaminated with these bacteria, often entering the body through cuts or abrasions on the skin. Flooding, a common occurrence during the Philippines’ rainy season, dramatically increases the risk of exposure.

The disease can range in severity from mild,flu-like symptoms to severe complications including kidney failure,liver damage,and even death. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are crucial for a triumphant recovery.

Recent Case Spikes & Regional Hotspots

The DOH data reveals a concerning trend. Between July 13th and 31st alone, DOH-run hospitals treated 569 new cases.Several facilities are notably burdened:

East Avenue Medical Center (Quezon City): 32 cases
Sta. Ana Hospital (Manila): 26 cases
National Kidney and Transplant Institute: 19 cases
San Lazaro Hospital (Manila): Reported seven fatalities in the first five days of August, with many patients exhibiting rapid organ failure after wading through floodwaters.

Beyond Metro Manila, regional increases are equally concerning:

Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR): 22 cases reported between January 1st and February 1st, a 38% increase year-over-year.
Caraga Region: 223 cases recorded from January to May, with significant year-on-year spikes:
Surigao del Sur: 407% increase
Agusan del Sur: 125% increase
Surigao del Norte: 680% increase

The DOH attributes approximately 43% of these cases to direct exposure to contaminated floodwaters.

PhilHealth Coverage & access to Care

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has urged the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to ensure leptospirosis patients have full access to available benefit packages,covering hospitalization,diagnostics,and necessary medications. Recent PhilHealth reforms championed by Senator go aim to improve accessibility:

Removal of the 45-day annual hospitalization cap.
Repeal of the 24-hour confinement rule.

PhilHealth has also announced plans to expand coverage to include mental health services, dental care, outpatient drug benefits, advanced diagnostics (MRIs, CT scans), and specialized treatments like chemotherapy and cardiac care. Improvements to Kidney Care Z Packages now include pediatric and peritoneal dialysis.Malasakit Centers: A Resource for Assistance

Senator Go also highlighted the role of Malasakit Centers, established through Republic Act 11463, as one-stop shops for medical and financial assistance. Currently, 167 centers operate nationwide, having assisted over 17 million Filipinos according to the DOH. He called on PhilHealth to strengthen its presence within these centers to ensure patients receive thorough support.

Crucial Details Not Included in the Original Article:

Symptoms of Leptospirosis: The article lacked a description of the symptoms, which typically include high fever, headache, muscle aches, vomiting, jaundice, red eyes, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rash.
Prevention measures: The article didn’t detail preventative measures, such as wearing protective gear (boots, gloves) when wading in floodwaters, practicing good hygiene, controlling rodent populations, and proper waste disposal.
Specific Bacterial Strains: The article doesn’t mention the specific Leptospira serovars prevalent in the Philippines, which can vary by region and influence disease severity.
Long-Term Health Impacts: The article doesn’t address potential long-term health consequences of leptospirosis, even after successful treatment, such as kidney damage or neurological issues.
Animal Vaccination: The role of animal vaccination programs (particularly for dogs) in controlling the spread of leptospirosis was not mentioned.

Disclaimer: This rewritten article is based on the provided text and aims to be 100% unique while preserving all verifiable facts.Additional details has been added to provide a more comprehensive overview of leptospirosis and the current situation in the Philippines.

August 8, 2025 0 comments