Hospitals on Code White alert

CEBU, Philippines - Code White Alert has been raised in all hospitals and health facilities by the Department of Health-Central Visayas in preparation for the Christmas and New Year celebrations.

DOH Regional Drector Susana Madarieta yesterday said the Code White Alert will be in place on December 24, 25 and 31, and January 1, 2012 to prepare and ensure the provision of prompt emergency services during this holiday season.

Under Code White alert, hospitals are required to have adequate manpower, drugs and medicines, vaccines, medical supplies and equipment at all times. There are an estimated 72 DOH-run hospitals nationwide.

During national events, holidays or celebrations, the Code White alert is activated, Madarieta said.

This year the DOH changed the old campaign title Iwas Paputok to APIR or Aksyon: Paputok Injury Reduction.

It can be recalled that the old campaign uses a poster showing graphic pictures of blasted fingers caused by the firecrackers.

But this year the DOH’s strategy is positive as the APIR poster shows two hands exchanging high-fives to symbolize the completeness of one’s fingers after the holiday seasons.  (FREEMAN)