All district hospitals in Iloilo have been placed under Code White Alert in preparation for the influx of patients during the New Year festivities.
In an interview with Bombo Radyo, Dr. Paz Calopiz, head of the Iloilo Hospital Management Office, explained that all health workers—including general and orthopedic surgeons, anesthesiologists, internists, operating room nurses, and ophthalmologists—are on standby and ready to respond to any medical emergencies at all hours.
Dr. Calopiz further shared that before the holiday season, the Hospital Management Office made sure that hospital supplies and equipment, such as intravenous (IV) fluids, were well-stocked and available.
The outpatient department will remain open during regular office hours, while the emergency room and triage are also prepared to accommodate patients, especially in case of a significant surge.
However, Dr. Calopiz noted that the number of hospital beds has decreased due to many patients who have not yet been discharged. Despite this, she reassured the public that hospitals are not overflowing, and there are still available beds for emergency admissions when necessary.
The authorities hope that, aside from potential firework-related injuries, there will be no victims of stray bullets during the celebrations.
