ILOILO City – The Western Visayas Medical Center (WVMC) is calling on hospitals and health centers across the region to implement the Comprehensive Referral System Manual to ensure patients receive appropriate care at the right facilities and help reduce congestion at the regional hospital.
Dr. Lemuel Umahag, head of the Office of the Assistant CMPS for Specialty Center, emphasized the need for a coordinated referral system to enhance healthcare delivery in Western Visayas.
“We have already conducted meetings with public and private hospitals across Panay to inform them about the referral guidelines. This system is crucial in supporting the government’s Universal Health Program and ensuring patients are treated at the right level of care,” Umahag said.
WVMC hospital director Dr. Joseph Dean Nicolo pointed out that proper implementation of the referral system could reduce patient admissions by 30%.
“Many patients who could be treated in health centers or district hospitals are being sent directly to WVMC, which exacerbates congestion. If the referral process is followed, only patients who require tertiary care will be directed to tertiary hospitals,” Nicolo explained.
Nicolo also called for the strengthening of district and provincial hospitals, such as Guimbal District Hospital, Ramon Tabiana Memorial District Hospital in Cabatuan, and Iloilo Provincial Hospital in Pototan, to provide alternative care for patients with less severe conditions./PN
