DOH-Bicol regional director Dr. Ernie Vera (PNA file photo)
LEGAZPI CITY -- The Department of Health (DOH) in Bicol on Monday said it would tap the services of private hospitals in managing patients suspected to be afflicted with the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) if the disease enters the region.
“The worst-case scenario and as a preventive measure against the spread of Covid-19 if it reaches the region, we will allow second and third level private hospitals to assist us in the control and spread of the disease,” said Dr. Ernie Vera, director of DOH-Bicol.
He said tapping the services of public and private hospitals would be a counter and preparedness measure.
Vera said there are 21 hospitals categorized as Levels 2 and 3 in Bicol, of which only five are government-run while 16 are private.
Level 2 hospitals are those that have additional facilities like intensive care unit (ICU) for critically ill patients, as well as specialist doctors and clinical laboratory.
Level 3 hospitals are teaching and training facilities which usually cater to trauma cases and can provide all services.
Asked if these hospitals are capable of managing patients with symptoms of Covid-19, Vera said these are ready to admit and diagnose patients but Covid-19 laboratory tests would still be submitted to the Research Institute for Tropical Medicines (RITM).
As of March 9, Bicol has no confirmed case of Covid-19 and no patients under investigation (PUIs).
With the rising number of confirmed cases in the Philippines as well as recorded local transmission of the viral disease, DOH-Bicol is urging the public to intensify preventive measures through the practice of good personal hygiene. (PNA)
