Manila: The Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC) is advocating for the implementation of a robust referral system to alleviate the overwhelming congestion it currently faces as the only tertiary hospital in the region. The medical center has been stretched beyond its limits, operating with patient numbers more than double its official bed capacity.
According to Philippines News Agency, Dr. Joseph Michael Jaro, the EVMC medical center chief, emphasized the need for a structured referral system during a press briefing. This system would ensure that the regional hospital focuses on handling complex medical cases and providing specialized services, thus optimizing healthcare delivery.
Dr. Jaro highlighted the strain on the hospital's resources, noting, "We are always almost double its capacity. Surge compromises the efficiency of care delivery. We can handle cases, but our health workers will be overworked, which is counterproductive." The hospital, with an official bed capacity of 629, often accommodates up to 1,300 patients, necessitating the use of overflow areas and the conversion of other facility parts for patient care.
The influx of patients is largely attributed to the direct transport of individuals from rural health units or by the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office, bypassing district and provincial hospitals. This practice, coupled with walk-in patients, has created significant bottlenecks, complicating patient prioritization.
In response to the overcrowding, the hospital has resorted to strategies like bed-sharing, particularly for mothers and newborns, to maximize available space. Dr. Randy Saavedra, head of the EVMC public health unit, reported that between January and July 2025, the hospital's emergency room received 972 patients, with 395 arriving without prior coordination.
Dr. Saavedra emphasized the need for a referral system, stating, "The EVMC is designed to treat level 3 cases. Levels 1 and 2 cases can be treated in community, district, or provincial hospitals. We have been asking help from the Department of Health to continue dialogue with local government units to establish a good referral system." Despite treating various conditions that could be managed at smaller facilities, EVMC remains committed to expanding its capacity, aiming for 1,500 hospital beds by 2028.
