Situation on the ground: Hospitals bursting at the seams

I am a physician in one of the major private hospitals in Metro Manila. We only have a few cases of confirmed COVID-19 cases, but a lot more of suspected cases awaiting the results of testing. As early as now we are beginning to experience a shortage in doctors (especially residents) who are manning the emergency room and those in the internal medicine department.

No doctor has tested positive for COVID-19, but per protocol, all those exposed will undergo self-quarantine and, thus, are not available to render care. The hospital is trying to think of ways to address this problem, but there is no easy solution. I think it is only a matter of time until one of our doctors tests positive for the virus. I am especially worried about the medical practitioners and staff who are manning the emergency department.

I just wanted to let you know the situation in our hospital. If this continues, I can foresee a time when there may not be enough physicians to care for the sick.

I am also disgusted with the way the government has been handling the situation. What we need from them is guidance about what to do in this situation. I do hope that they are formulating some plan to deal with the crisis. I can only hope and pray that there are some bright minds in their group who can deal with this crisis.

NAME WITHHELD UPON REQUEST