UP-PGH Faces Overcapacity Amid Rising Patient Influx

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The University of the Philippines’ Philippine General Hospital (UP-PGH) is facing a crisis as its emergency room battles with overwhelming numbers of patients, far exceeding its capacity. Spokesperson Jonas del Rosario clarified that no single event, such as an outbreak or disaster, is responsible for this influx. Instead, a general increase in hospitalisation needs has been observed, with many patients presenting common conditions like strokes, heart attacks, and flu.

Typically accommodating 75 to 80 patients, the emergency room is now stretched to handle 180 to 200 daily, an increase that's proving challenging. Despite efforts to maximise space by using stretchers and beds, shortages force many to sit in chairs or on the floor.

To alleviate the pressure, the Department of Health has directed patients to alternative hospitals across Metro Manila, including:

Caloocan

• Dr. Jose N. Rodriguez Memorial Hospital and Sanitarium

Las Piñas

• Las Piñas General Hospital and Satellite Trauma Center

Malabon

• San Lorenzo Ruiz General Hospital

Mandaluyong 

• National Center for Mental Health

Manila

• Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital
• Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center
• San Lazaro Hospital
• Tondo Medical Center

Marikina

• Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center

Muntinlupa 

• Research Institute for Tropical Medicine

Pasig

• Rizal Medical Center

Quezon City 

• East Avenue Medical Center
• National Children's Hospital
• Philippine Orthopedic Center
• Quirino Memorial Medical Center
• Lung Center of the Philippines
• National Kidney and Transplant Institute
• Philippine Heart Center
• Philippine Children's Medical Center

Valenzuela

• Valenzuela Medical Center

These facilities are intended to distribute patient care more evenly during this critical period.

Del Rosario highlighted that the lack of available hospital beds is a significant factor, with the current capacity at 1,334 beds and plans to increase this as additional units are acquired. The recent Department of Budget and Management approval to hire 1,224 new positions also aims to address the staffing shortfall affecting patient care quality.

UP-PGH is simultaneously upgrading its buildings and facilities, particularly in response to frequent fire incidents. As recruitment continues and upgrades are implemented, the hospital endeavours to improve the situation, ensuring patient care remains a priority, reported Phil Star.