The situation around the pandemic is rapidly changing, but some things remain the same—people with comorbidities are still at the highest risk. This is why they need proper regular medical attention now more than ever.
Noel Rosas, MD from the Section of Cardiology at top hospital in the Philippines Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) reiterates that the elderly and those with chronic health conditions are more likely to get severe symptoms from COVID-19, increasing their risk of hospitalization and even death. “Since you already have a compromised immune status, it will be more difficult for you to fight this new disease,” he adds. “It’s very important that you continue your treatment plans and medications, and follow your doctors’ advice on managing your disease amid the pandemic.”
Dr. Rosas says that people with comorbidities should not hesitate to go to their routine doctor appointments or hospital visits as scheduled, despite the threat of COVID-19. “Delaying routine medical care can lead to complications that will affect your quality of life and worsen any existing condition, making it difficult for your healthcare providers to treat your disease or its complications later on.”
Given the current challenges, Dr. Rosas recognizes and understands the hesitation about going to a healthcare facility to get checked. This is why MakatiMed has implemented stringent hospital safety protocols including those who are going to outpatient centers and doctors’ clinics. “We know that the current situation can be a bit discouraging. We understand the fear of going out of your homes. That’s why on our part as medical practitioners, we really made it a point to do our best to keep our patients safe while getting medical care,” the doctor says.
For regular checkups or outpatient procedures, patients and their companions need to set an appointment first and answer a screening form online or through MakatiMed OnCall or the clinic secretary. Only one doctor, one patient, one companion (for pediatric, geriatric, and people with special needs), and one nurse/secretary are allowed inside the clinic at any time. The clinics have been modified with acrylic barriers and others with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters for the mutual protection of the doctor and patient. Outpatient procedure areas are also disinfected between each patient use. For their utmost protection and peace of mind, MakatiMed has separate areas and pathways for non-COVID-19 patients.
Apart from implementing stringent hospital safety protocols, MakatiMed has also created other safe ways for those with comorbidities to get the proper medical attention. For those who are immunocompromised, Dr. Rosas says that it’s also more practical and safe for people with preexisting conditions to stay at home as much as possible and limit interactions with other people. If an in-person appointment is not required, patients with comorbidities can keep in touch with their doctors through MakatiMed’s TeleMD Service.
MakatiMed has extended its laboratory services by bringing them right to their doorstep. Instead of going to the hospital for blood collection, they can now simply book for a Laboratory Home Service so medical experts will just go to their house for the procedure.
Dr. Rosas is also reminding them to be mindful of their supply of medications. “You are also advised to have at least a 30-day supply of prescription and non-prescription medicines, if possible, to reduce trips to the pharmacy,” he adds. To help them, MakatiMed now has MedExpress Delivery Service so those with comorbidities and their caregivers can avoid long lines and reduce possible exposure to COVID-19 without having to worry about their medications.
Finally, Dr. Rosas also encourages people with comorbidities to get vaccinated as early as possible. The Department of Health (DOH) has already given people with chronic respiratory disease, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, malignancy, diabetes mellitus, obesity, asthma, and chronic kidney disease early access to the vaccine, explaining that they are the ones who are likely to have severe symptoms or even die if they get infected by COVID-19.
“Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 can give you another layer of protection against the disease. But we are still in the middle of the pandemic. You should remain vigilant. You should do your best to take care of yourself and remain healthy,” the doctor says. “Keep safe at home and following health protocols like wearing a mask and practicing social distancing can help prevent COVID-19. Consult with your doctor whenever needed. Delaying so would only do more harm than good.”
For more information, please contact MakatiMed On-Call at +632.8888 8999, email mmc@makatimed.net.ph, or visit www.makatimed.net.ph.