PAMPANGA - Pampanga Governor Lilia "Nanay" Pineda, together with Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Edwin Mercado and Nanay Partylist Representative Florabel Yatco, personally inspected the Jose B. Lingad Memorial General Hospital (JBLMGH) last Saturday to assess the hospital's readiness and capacity to handle the rising number of patients affected by flooding-related diseases. The officials visited the Center for Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, where patients being treated for dengue and leptospirosis are currently confined. To ensure closer, specialized medical monitoring, specific individuals have been placed in isolation rooms.
Hospital Capacity and Patient Load
JBLMGH Medical Center Chief II Dr. Monserrat Chichioco confirmed that the hospital has a total capacity of 1,000 beds, with a dedicated portion designated specifically for leptospirosis patients. Currently, over 60 patients are admitted for leptospirosis, arriving from various areas across Central Luzon. The hospital administration also assured that they have an adequate supply of rooms, medications, and equipment—including hemodialysis machines necessary for patients suffering from severe complications such as kidney failure.
Financial Assistance and Medical Readiness
The inspection was part of the provincial government's ongoing efforts to ensure that public health facilities are prepared to respond to the health challenges brought by the enhanced southwest monsoon. Beyond medical care, the provincial government is providing financial aid to affected families through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) to help them cope with the economic impact of the crisis. DOH Secretary Mercado also met with JBLMGH doctors and staff to discuss the latest national health guidelines, reinforcing the importance of early diagnosis and prompt treatment to prevent severe complications from leptospirosis. With over 60 patients currently admitted and more expected as floodwaters recede, JBLMGH and the provincial government remain on high alert to provide immediate and accessible healthcare to those in need.
