Taking patient care to heart

MANILA, Philippines - Known as the hospital with a heart, Makati Medical Center continues to deliver superior patient care with new and innovative services that go beyond basic treatment and medication, taking to heart every patient’s holistic wellbeing.

“We at MakatiMed do more than just giving optimum care for our patients — we build relationships with them, and give much attention and malasakit,” says Dr. Eric Nubla Jr., the hospital’s director of patient relations. “We look after all the aspects that contribute to a person’s overall wellness.”

The premier health institution is putting together a new cluster, comprised of Home Care, Optimal Aging, Weight Wellness and the Diabetes Clinic. These are all interrelated services dedicated to guide patients in recovering from illness and surgery by helping them change their lifestyles to avoid getting sick and lending an extra hand to those who need special attention and care. 

“The Home Care section was developed to address the medical institution’s growing number of patients who need extra and sustaining care after discharge from the hospital,” says Nubla. The services of Home Care can be requested by the patient and the patient’s family, and is ideal for post-surgery, cardiac, and stroke patients and for those who are terminally ill.

“We send them a team of doctors and nurses, who are always in close coordination with the medical staff, to maintain the quality of care to be administered at home,” he adds. “Not only will the patient be in a more comfortable environment, hospital costs are lessened, too.”

Home Care for pediatric patients is also offered specifically for first-time mothers seeking assistance on how to care for their babies and mothers who are wary about bringing their children to the hospital for check-ups for fear of them catching a disease.

Likewise, the hospital also caters to the elderly who have been neglected in terms of attention and care. Optimal Aging begins with an honest assessment of the patient, a review of his record and a prescription of tailor-fit activities that will suit his needs. The hospital’s customized program may consist of arts and crafts activities, writing and reading, singing and other entertainment, as well as socializing activities. Of course the patients’ medical needs are constantly monitored and addressed as needs arise.

Nubla is quick to point out that everyone is welcome to join in as anyone benefits from the activities offered. “The program is great for those who want to keep active and stimulate their minds.”

Finally, recommended interventions in nutrition and diet come in via the Weight Wellness section and the Diabetes Clinic. “More than treating those with serious weight problems and those diagnosed with diabetes, these two sections are the hospital’s way of responding to our patient’s current needs and lifestyle,” says Nubla. “Today, looking great by staying healthy and fit has become a priority for many. And with our special nutritionists and dietitians to offer advice on food intake, exercise and other lifestyle choices, we can help improve our patients’ quality of life.”

With these four sections integrated, Nubla is more than pleased to be continuing the hospital’s long-time thrust to serve with a heart. “I think what sets MakatiMed apart from the rest is our unique way of doing things. We pay attention to the ever-changing needs of our patients; and from this, we consciously innovate and improve our services to be able to give them the best possible treatment that takes care of all their needs,” he concludes.