the official newsletter of de los santos medical center

The Official Newsletter of De Los Santos Medical Center



Raul C. Pagdanganan

Nilo C. de los Santos, MD

Arvin Ace C. OdulioKatherina Alexandria L. Perez

Kathleen Joy B. MabatoJohn Carlo A. Marcelo

Arvin Ace C. Odulio

DE LOS SANTOS MEDICAL CENTER201 E. Rodriguez Sr. Boulevard,Quezon City 1112 PhilippinesTel. No.: (02) 89-DLSMC / 89-35762www.delossantosmed.ph

Rounds is the official publication of De Los Santos Medical Center, a subsidiary of Manuel V. Pangilinan’s MVP Group of Companies

under the Metro Pacific Hospital Holdings Inc. (MPHHI) banner.

Publisher

Editor-in-Chief

Editorial Staff

Graphic Artists

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Contributor

Richard C. Domingo

Your Brain Matters

Interventional Neuroradiology or Endovascular Neurosurgery is a medical subspecialty specializing in minimally invasive image-based technologies and procedures used in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the

brain, head and neck as well as spine.

A subspecialty in radiology, neurosurgery and neurology, endovascular neurointervention uses catheters and radiology platforms to diagnose and treat cerebrovascular diseases of the brain and spine. The term endovascular means “inside a blood vessel” and an interventional neuroradiologist uses very thin catheter tools that pass through the blood vessels to diagnose and treat illnesses in lieu of traditional open surgery. The neurointerventionalist uses radiology images to help them characterize, map, and plan treatment of gamuts of cerebrovascular maladies of the brain and spine.

This expansion with the use of a Catheterization Laboratory (Cath lab) facility, previously focused primarily on cardiovascular disease, gives neurological patients more options than ever before. Endovascular treatments may be given to patients with brain and spinal hemorrhagic conditions including aneurysms (coiling, balloon-assisted remodeling, stent-assisted, flow diversion), arteriovenous malformations or AVMs (liquid embolics using Onyx and glue), dural arteriovenous fistulas or dAVF (liquid embolics or coiling), hypervascular brain tumors (for pre-operative embolization) as well as embolotherapy or sclerotherapy of head & neck vascular malformations, etc.

Ischemic pathologies can also be treated effectively using cutting edge technology like mechanical thrombectomies for major strokes, intracranial stenting procedures and carotid revascularization (angioplasty and stenting).

Treating neurological patients with minimally-invasive procedures at the Cath Lab Unit

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Interventional Neuroradiologist Dr. Erwin D. Jocson at the DLSMC Cath Lab. The facility is one of a few Cath Labs in the country that has digital subtraction angiography, flat panel technology, and 3D rotational capability.

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Five years after De Los Santos Medical Center became a member of the Metro Pacific Hospital Group, I am proud to say that we are on track with our 10-year development plan, having accomplished the first phase which was composed largely of structural changes and equipment acquisition. Now, we are on our second phase in which we will transition from being facility-based to building our reputation for excellence in disease management. The first of our major endeavors in this second phase was the opening of our Catheterization Laboratory Unit or Cath Lab. Though it opened only on February last year, the Cath Lab been able to expand and offer more than just standard cardiac procedures. It has since added to its roster of services Pediatric Interventional Cardiology, Interventional Nephrology, Interventional Neuroradiology, and Percutaneous Transhepatic Biliary Drainage, all at very competitive rates compared to other private and even some government hospitals.

As early as one year into its success, the Cath Lab is already paying it forward, starting with a Valentine medical mission for pediatric patients with congenital heart disease. It is only the first of a series of cardiac medical missions for the year, and we hope to help a lot more deserving children in the months to come.

Our kidney transplantation and joint replacement surgeries are being performed by a competent team of doctors and nurses, all with good clinical success. One of our patients, television host Ms. Maggie dela Riva, tells her journey of finally being able to walk again without pain after undergoing hip replacement under the able hands of Dr. Jose Fernando Syquia, the head of our Arthritis Center.

Finally, we are excited about our partnership with the Quezon City Athletic Association (QCAA) where DLSMC will be the Official Healthcare Provider for Season 13 and a major sponsor for the 1st QCAA Sports Summit. With this partnership, student athletes, employees and assignees of the 40 QCAA member schools will be able to avail of special rates for DLSMC’s diagnostic and treatment services, both inpatient and outpatient. We believe in advancing healthcare for our young athletes, and we will support their dreams through our services, particularly for orthopedics and physical medicine and rehabilitation.

Many other exciting developments are yet to come, and we shall introduce these in the succeeding months. This is only the beginning of a great year – our year.



Saving Young Hearts

C ongenital Heart Disease (CHD) is a problem with the structure of the heart present at birth. It is the most common type of birth defect and can involve the walls of the heart, the valves of the

heart, and the arteries and veins that are near the heart. The most common problems involve holes that did not close, valves that did not open, or valves that are defective. These can disrupt the normal flow of blood through the heart causing it to flow ineffectively, go in the wrong direction, or be blocked completely.

Globally, CHD is the most common birth defect affecting roughly 6 to 8 out of 1000 births. In the Philippines, an estimated 20,000 babies a year are born with CHD. Roughly 8 of 1,000 Filipino newborns will be born with CHD and 2 of those will need surgery or catheter based intervention within the first year of life.

Some congential heart defects can be found before birth for mothers that undergo fetal echocardiogram (although this not a common procedure). For other babies, pediatricians may catch heart problems during routine physical exams and request special heart tests for diagnosis. Signs and symptoms among newborns and children that may have congenital heart disease include rapid breathing, cyanosis (a bluish tinge to skin, lips, and fingernails), fatigue, poor blood circulation, poor feeding and weight gain, and recurring illnesses like pneumonia. These are symptoms caused by the heart working much harder than it should be.

Certain congenital heart defects cause few or no symptoms and as such are often not diagnosed until children are much older. There are children with CHD that don’t need emergent treatment.

The landmark breakthrough in acute stroke care using mechanical thrombectomy is now available at De Los Santos Medical Center (DLSMC), shares Interventional Neuroradiologist Dr. Erwin D. Jocson. “This breakthrough treatment has completely changed the way we deal with stroke today. After the outcomes of major global trials, we have seen a tectonic shift in treatment strategies to reverse disabling and potentially fatal major occlusive strokes. As the American Heart Association (AHA) puts it, the impact of mechanical thrombectomy is a ‘once in a generation change in stroke care’.

To offer more patients the benefits of endovascular treatments, DLSMC, a member of Manuel V. Pangilinan’s MVP Group of Companies under the Metro Pacific Hospital Holdings, Inc. (MPHHI) banner, launched their brand new state-of-the-art Catheterization Laboratory Unit last February 2018. The Cath Lab at DLSMC is equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technology to allow interventional neuroradiologists and endovascular specialists to effectively treat brain and spine patients.

“Thanks to pristine imaging by our new cath lab facility, as well as imaging modalities within radiology, we can see the brain and cerebrovascular neuroarchitecture in such a detail that helps physicians like me to better assess and plan treatment strategies for our patients,” Dr. Jocson explains. “At the DLSMC Cath Lab, we are able to utilize the gold standard of digital subtraction imaging technology. Digital subtraction angiography or DSA helps us achieve detailed and sharp images, and the 3D rotational capability of our facility enables us to render versatile 3D images for precise localization and treatment planning. It can never be overemphasized that better quality images equate to better treatment planning, and lead into higher success rates with optimized patient safety and outcomes.

Endovascular treatments have several benefits for neurological patients including expedited treatments, less body trauma versus open surgery, shorter hospital stay, and quicker and better functional recovery.

Based on established global studies, typical timeframe of recovery for endovascular patients with unruptured aneurysms can be as short as few days to one week. Functional recovery is typically longer with open surgery for obvious reasons. Minimally-invasive endovascular approach has then become the standard of care for many cerebrovascular maladies rather than an ‘alternative’. This particularly holds true for older neurological patients whose health comorbities likely preclude them to undergo the knife or open surgery.

As with most technology-driven medical procedures, neuroendovascular cath lab procedures may be more expensive than their open surgery counterparts. Nevertheless, the higher and quicker functional recovery with minimally-invasive treatment typically offsets the costs when compared to traditional open surgery with longer hospital stays and post-operative maintenance medications. At times, endovascular treatment works synergistically with open surgery such that the latter becomes more efficient. This is particularly true in conditions like AVMs. At DLSMC, the Cath Lab strives to offer affordable packages and hospital rates for patients to be able to avail of the best endovascular treatments at the best cost.

“We launched our Cath Lab to give more Filipino patients access to quality minimally-invasive neurointerventions,” explains Raul C. Pagdanganan, President and CEO of DLSMC. “We strive to put together doctors who can fully utilize the technology. There are only about 10 certified interventional neuroradiologists/endovascular neurosurgeons in the Philippines, and we have qualified experts utilizing our Cath Lab. We have the incredible potential to be a neurological center. We have the expertise coupled with the best facilities. At the same time, we strive to make these services as affordable as possible for our patients offering lower rates and all-in packages.”

The DLSMC Cath Lab is truly living up to its mission of providing topnotch catheter services at affordable rates helping more Filipino patients have access to the latest treatments and technology in neurological care.

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Closing the Holes with LoveBy: Ace C. Odulio

Last Valentine’s Day, De Los Santos Medical Center shared the love and hosted the 1st Happy Heart Cardiac Cath Mission, during which 7 toddlers and kids with Patent Ductus Arteriosus

(PDA) were successfully treated at the hospital’s Catheterization Laboratory Unit.

“Sobrang saya namin na may tumulong sa aming baby (We are so overjoyed that someone helped our baby),” said April Luz Alli, mother of Quinn Zia Cañete. “Hulog ng langit talaga (It is truly a gift from heaven).”

Baby Quinn was one of the beneficiaries of the endeavor. The daughter of a security guard and a homemaker, Quinn was diagnosed with a large PDA―a type of “butas sa puso”. After the “hole” in her heart failed to close within the usual timeframe (a certain number of days or weeks after birth), her family opted to seek medical assistance.

Luckily, Mommy April was able to discover online communities like Jade & Friends, and Heart Warriors Philippines who support patients with congenital heart defects such as PDA. Soon after, Quinn and her family were flown from their home

in Palawan to Manila in order to provide the toddler with proper

heart treament.

DLSMC’s Dexter Eugene Cheng, MD, a Pediatric Interventional Cardiologist, spearheaded the medical team that performed PDA device closure on Quinn, Amara, Angelica, Helena, Janella, Kenna and Kyle―paving the way for each of the patients to have happy and healthy hearts.

During a PDA device closure, a small tube called a catheter is inserted through the patient’s groin. On the tip of the catheter is the device that will close the PDA. With the aid of a fluoroscope (a special x-ray viewing apparatus), the catheter is maneuvered to the PDA. Once the device is in place, the catheter is then removed.

“The solution for PDA is now minimally invasive,” remarked Dr. Cheng. “We no longer need to cut open the chest through surgery. The PDA device closure procedure is done at our cath lab and usually lasts only 30 minutes to an hour.”

“Kulang ang mga salita para pasalamatan namin sila Dr. Cheng para sa ginawa nila kay Quinn (Words are not enough to thank Dr. Cheng and his team for what they did for Quinn,” Mommy April exclaimed. “Blessed kami na dito sa De Los Santos Medical Center ginawa ung procedure kay baby, ‘di nakakatakot kaya kampante kami at tiwala kami sa mga doktor dito (We are blessed that the procedure for our baby was done at DLSMC, the ambiance was not terrifying, which helped alleviate our fears, and we have full trust in our doctors here).”

Left to right: Baby Quinn Zia Cañete; The beneficiaries of the Happy Heart mission with their parents; Dexter Eugene Cheng, MD and Louisa Joan Go, MD of the

Happy Heart medical team

But there are many others that do. These treatments can include medicines, surgery, catheter procedures, and heart transplants. Treatment will depend on the type of defect and the severity of the defect along with the child’s age, size, and health. At present, if a pediatric patient is eligible, catheter procedures remain their best choice because it is commonly faster, practically painless, and the recovery time is quicker.

“We have really been able to push the boundaries of catheter procedures for pediatric heart patients in the last 10 years,” shared Dr. Dexter Cheng, Pediatric Interventional Cardiologist at De Los Santos Medical Center. “Through the procedures offered by catheter laboratories, children with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), ventricular septal defects (VSD), and atrial septal defect (ASD) may be treated without open heart surgery.”

PDA, VSD, and ASD – or various holes in the heart – are the most common types of congenital heart defects that may be treated through catheter procedures. In many stable newborns with PDA or VSD, parents are advised to wait to see if the hole in the heart will close on its own. If it doesn’t close after six to nine months, then patients eligible for catheterization procedures may be treated by inserting an occluder device in the heart at the catheterization laboratory or cath lab. This procedure does not require surgical incision or leave a scar. It can be as quick as 30-60 minutes and typically the patient just stays overnight for observation as opposed to the lengthier stay that goes with open-heart surgery.

At DLSMC, the 7th hospital under the Metro Pacific Hospital Holdings, Inc. (MPHHI) umbrella, the institution’s state-of-the-art Catheterization Laboratory Unit provides the latest technology partnered with expert pediatric

interventional cardiologists for patients from infancy to adulthood, who are suffering from congenital heart defects.

In the Philippines, pediatric heart experts are rare. There are only about 100 pediatric cardiologists in the country and only 13 pediatric interventional cardiologists. The number is very low compared to the number of CHD patients and this usually results in exceptionally long waiting times and often a lack of doctors to perform treatments. At the DLSMC Cath Lab, pediatric heart patients may be seen by an expert pediatric interventional cardiologist utilizing the latest cath lab technology and available to schedule an estimated 2-3 cath lab procedures in a day. What’s more, all of this is available to patients at very reasonable rates and packages comparable with public hospitals but with private hospital amenities.

“Through their affordable packages and rates, DLSMC Cath Lab is providing opportunities for a wider range of pediatric heart patients and proves that quality healthcare doesn’t have to be expensive,” Dr. Cheng explained. “These cardiac catheter procedures are almost like magic for our young patients – no pain and patients can get back to normal almost instantly. They are excellent options for viable candidates and offer children with heart defects their best chance.”

Pediatric interventional cardiologist Dr. Dexter Cheng performs a PDA closure on a young patient.

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Cupid’s PicksBy: Ace C. Odulio

I n celebration of the month of hearts, De Los Santos Medical Center arranged a lovely treat for the hospital community by organizing the 2nd Mr. and Ms. Valentine pageant last February 18 and 21. Held at the

Presidential Lounge of the Medical Arts Building, the event drew inspiration from the Ms. Universe pageant and adopted a familiar format consisting of a sportswear competition (in lieu of a swimsuit competition), a talent competition, a national costume competition, and a question and answer portion.

Medical residents and interns, nurses, and other healthcare professionals shared the floor with admin and security personnel alike. In total, 9 male and 6 female candidates from the different departments vied for the titles of Mr. and Ms. Valentine 2019, respectively. The audience was as much a part of the affair as the contestants themselves. Chants of “Suandi! Suandi! Suandi!” and “Pedia! Pedia! Pedia!” bellowed throughout the venue every time Suandi Liu, MD,

a Level II Resident from the Department of Pediatrics and the eventual winner of the Talent competition (Male category), delivered his trademark line of hindi baleng chubby, basta’t yummy. Meanwhile, the other hospital departments supported their colleagues by showering them with cheers and shrieks of excitement during the entire two-day event.

The first day featured all the candidates modeling their snazziest athletic apparel and showcasing their hidden and not-so-hidden talents during the pageant’s sportswear and talent competitions. Three of candidates stood out from the pack. Nursing Service Department’s Stephanie Yancha, RN bagged the awards for both Best in Sportswear and Best in Talent (Female) after sporting a sleek volleyball uniform and showing off her stage acting skills. Meanwhile, the Marketing Department’s Richard Domingo

was clad in a full baseball uniform and subsequently won Best in Sportswear (Male). Suandi Liu, MD, oozing with charisma as he danced to the tune of Psy’s Gentleman, was awarded for Best in Talent (Male) for his performance.

Then, on Coronation Night, the contestants went all out during the National Costume competition donning colorful and elaborate attires—from barongs and sayas to indigenous and fiesta-themed outfits. Product Development Officer Richard Domingo (with his carabao-inspired outfit) was again victorious while Franchesca Mae Lorenzo, MD (wearing a tribal warrior ensemble) was his female counterpart for Best in National Costume.

The candidates all displayed remarkable wit and candor during the question and answer portion of the pageant, thus proving that individuals can be both smart and good-looking.

Prior to the announcement of winners, both Neil Angelo Sael, MD and Maria Lourdes Escobar, MD were accorded the opportunity to charm the audience one last time during their final walks as the winners of the initial Mr. and Ms. Valentine pageant.

To cap off the evening, Axcel Baluyot, RN and

A dancing gentleman: Suandi Liu, MD channels his inner Psy during the Talent Competition

Passing the torch: Neil Angelo Sael, MD of the Dept. of Surgery

(left) and Maria Lourdes Escobar, MD of the Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynecology during their final walks as Mr. and Ms. Valentine 2017.

A cute couple: Mr. Valentine 2019 Axcel Baluyot RN of the Nursing Service Department and Ms. Valentine 2019 Franchesca Mae Lorenzo, MD of Department of Pediatrics

Beauty and the Best (in costume): Franchesca Mae Lorenzo, MD (far left) during the Talent competition and Richard Domingo during the National Costume competition.

Filipino Pride: The candidates for Ms. Valentine 2019 in their national costumes.

Franchesca Mae Lorenzo, MD took home the titles of Mr. and Ms. Valentine 2019. Ancillary Department’s Michael Eric Dy, RMT and Richard Domingo were awarded 1st and 2nd Runner-up for Mr. Valentine, while Leanna Rosete, MD and Mickaela Bianca Sarmiento, MD (both from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology) were named as the runners-up for Ms. Valentine.

The pageant is yet another example that DLSMC management values the importance of community building, and remains committed to holding similar

activities that promote camaraderie and good, clean fun for its physicians and hospital staff.

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Mr. and Ms. Valentine 2019



Triple threat: Product Development Officer Richard Domingo during the Sportswear competition (left); Domingo receiving his awards for Best in National Costume, Best in Sportswear and 2nd Runner-up for Mr. Valentine 2019 from guest judge and fashion designer Dennis Lustico

Modern-day Maria Clara: Leanna Rosete, MD from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology during the National Costume competition (right); Rosete being named 1st Runner-up for Ms. Valentine 2019 by entertainer extraordinaire “Papa Ahwel” Paz

Gwapings: Mr. Valentine 2019 Axcel Baluyot RN and Mr. Valentine 2017 Neil Angelo Sael, MD

The Princess & the Queen: The bubbly Ms. Valentine 2019 Franchesca Mae Lorenzo, MD and the incomparable Ms. Valentine 2017 Maria Lourdes

Escobar, MD

Si Maganda at si Malakas: Ms. Valentine 2019 1st Runner-up Leanna Rosete, MD and Mr. Valentine 2019 1st Runner-up Michael Eric Dy, RMT (below); Strongman Dy lifting hosts Mariah Pedreño, RMT and Adam Galarosa, RMT during the Talent competition

Simple elegance: Ms. Valentine 2019 2nd Runner-up Mickaela Bianca Sarmiento, MD of the Dept.of Obstetrics and Gynecology (left); Sarmiento

hypnotizing the audience her singing voice during the Talent

competition

Left to right: Mart Brestan Pestaño, MD of the Dept. of Surgery; Jasmine Valdez, MD of the Dept. of Internal Medicine; Stephanie Yancha, RN of the Nursing Service Dept. receiving her awards for Best in Talent and Best in Sportswear from guest judge and Dean of the UP College of

Human Kinetics Francis “Kiko” Diaz; Mr. Valentine 2019 Axcel Baluyot, RN of the Nursing Service Dept.

Left to right: Kimberly Supeña of the General Support Services, Engineering and Maintenance Dept.; Ramon Franco Atacador of the X-ray Dept.; Representatives from the Dept. of Pediatrics congratulating Ms. Valentine 2019 Franchesca Mae Lorenzo, MD (with crown and sash) and Best in Talent Suandi Liu, MD (with eyeglasses and sash)



“Our Year”By: Ace C. Odulio

The 2019 State of the Hospital Address

L ast January 22, 2019, De Los Santos Medical Center President and CEO Raul C. Pagdanganan delivered his 5th annual State of the Hospital Address (SOHA) to a keen audience consisting

of the DLSMC’s medical community, partners and friends at the Presidential Lounge of the hospital’s Medical Arts Building. The event served as a perfect venue for Management to not only provide some perspective regarding the accomplishments and challenges of the previous year, but to enlighten the community about the hospital’s initiatives for the coming years as well. “2018 had been a rather disheartening year for the country―with all the political squabbles and the economic downturn, both of which were beyond our control. In the same vein, our hospital performance was also rather unsettling as we were not able to hit the target that we set forth,” Pagdanganan remarked. “But then again, as our new Miss Universe has stated, we have to look at the silver lining.”

Pagdanganan summarized the institution’s major accomplishments for 2018 into 3 categories: expansion of the hospital’s capabilities through new equipment and services, improvement of facilities via building renovations, and enhancement of service delivery as a result of technological and process improvements.

Last year, DLSMC was able to diversify its service offerings by procuring new machines such as a 128-slice CT scanner, a bone mineral density (BMD) machine, and an additional endoscopy tower. It also inaugurated specialized facilities like the Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery Center, where minimally invasive surgeries such as bariatric (weight loss) surgery and laparoscopic hernia repair are offered; the Catheterization Laboratory Unit, where interventional cardiology, interventional nephrology, and interventional radiology procedures are undertaken; the Orthopaedic Sports Clinic, where patients who suffered sports-related injuries are examined and treated; and the Telemetry Unit, where patients in critical condition receive constant monitoring and utmost care. Moreover, new subspecialties such as geriatric medicine and pain medicine were introduced in order to serve a wider array of patients.

With regard to building renovations, most of the patient rooms located at the 2nd and 3rd floors of the Main Hospital Building have been standardized and upgraded to make them more conducive to healing and recovery. New elevators were also installed to accommodate patients and visitors alike at the aforementioned building.

In line with De Los Santos Medical Center’s efforts towards streamlining its business processes and implementing a paperless work environment, the IT Department introduced the Laboratory Information System (LIS) and Radiology Information System-Picture Archiving Communication System (RIS-PACS) wherein the results of all tests conducted by the Laboratory and Radiology departments are digitally stored to ensure data security and easy access upon valid request. Through the LIS, requesting doctors

can now view their patients’ laboratory results online; similarly, patients can also view their lab results via a web-based system called MyResults (https://myresults.dlsmc.ph). Meanwhile, with the RIS-PACS, readers can easily prepare and finalize their reports as imaging results are likewise now digitally available―thus cutting the waiting time for patients at the X-ray, CT Scan/MRI, and Ultrasound departments.

The IT Department likewise developed the Electronic Professional Fee (ePF) system. With the said platform, physicians can input and view their PFs online. Upon receiving the PF details, a personnel from the Billing Department then encodes the PF into the system for the timely generation of a Statement of Account (SOA). Not only does the ePF system improve the turnaround time for doctors to receive their professional fees, it also leads to the speedy discharge of their patients.

Pagdanganan also emphasized that the institution will commence to devote all its efforts in the coming years to providing clinical excellence and great patient experience―the basis for delivering quality healthcare.

“We already have Clinical Excellence programs in place – such as the monitoring of our clinical outcomes, particularly on medication safety, fall rates, and hospital-acquired infections or HAIs – so that we know where we stand compared to local and international healthcare standards,” he acknowledged. “We also formed a Risk Reduction Management Committee, whose function is to look into sentinel events or patient complaints, and analyze how such incidents can be prevented to ensure patient safety. Through this, we want to create a norm in which we can constantly strive for better performance.”

A Patient Experience team was also established to handle concerns on patient care and delivery of service while a Quality Management team was formed to look into the hospital’s performance when it comes to regulatory compliance, policy implementation, and clinical excellence.

Regarding the further expansion of its medical

services, DLSMC shall commence to offer Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery – commonly known as open heart surgery – at the Catheterization Laboratory Unit in 2019. Furthermore, the institution aims put up a Cancer Center in the next few years. “And true to our commitment, we will find ways to make these services affordable so that the fear of financial burden will not be one of the reasons that hinders our patients from battling this particular illness,” Pagdanganan assured.

On another note, De Los Santos Medical Center is slated to be the first from the Metro Pacific Hospital Group to launch a rewards program. Dubbed DLSMC Rewards or “D Rewards”, the revolutionary program will provide patients with reward points for availing the hospital’s services. Such points will then be automatically credited to their D Rewards card, which works as a debit and VISA card. With the card, patients can pay their bills with ease (through PayMaya) and enjoy exclusive deals from participating merchants.

Pagdanganan concluded his address by declaring that the institution is now in Phase 2 of its Master Development plan wherein it is in the process of developing its expertise in disease management.

“As we move toward becoming the preferred multi-specialty center, we will focus on two main growth drivers – clinical excellence and great patient experience,” he stated. “We will increase the level of clinical excellence so that we may be able to attract more specialists, and consequently, more patients to our hospital. We will develop a culture of delivering great patient experience in order for us to stand out in terms of service delivery.”

The president then asked for the community’s cooperation and commitment to bring DLSMC to greater heights and reach its fullest potential.

“I therefore believe that this year will be different. I believe that this will be the year when we will harvest the seeds that we have been planting since 2013.” Pagdanganan noted. “With our learnings from the previous years, I am claiming 2019 as our year―Atin ‘to! We can do this!”

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D e Los Santos Medical Center (DLSMC) and recently signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Quezon City Athletic Association (QCAA) wherein the hospital was named as

the Official Healthcare Partner of the QCAA and a Major Sponsor of QCAA Season 13.

Under the said agreement, QCAA officials and their beneficiaries – as well QCAA member schools, its student athletes, employees and assignees – will be able to avail of DLSMC’s diagnostic and treatment services (both inpatient and outpatient) at special rates.

“Through the legacy of our founder Dr. Jose V. de los Santos, Sr., known as the Father of Philippine Orthopedics, our institution has the expertise to diagnose and treat patients who have bone and other sports-related injuries,” affirmed DLSMC President and CEO Raul C. Pagdanganan.

QCAA is an organization of private schools located in the Quezon City area whose primary role is to prepare men and women to compete for collegiate varsity scholarships and possibly, careers in professional basketball and other sports disciplines. It currently has 40 member schools.

Present during the contract signing (left to right): Jake T. Solomon, OIC-Marketing, DLSMC; Lemwell C. Ortiz, President, QCAA; Raul C. Pagdanganan, President and CEO, DLSMC; Jordan T. Tolentino, Secretary General, QCAA; and Carmen N. Soriano, Senior Sales Manager, DLSMC.

DLSMC and Quezon CityAthletic Association Ink Agreement

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L ast March 21, 2019, De Los Santos Medical Center partnered with NLEX Corporation for a medical mission at Brgy. Lourdes Sur East, Angeles, Pampanga. Together with its sister

hospitals in the Metro Pacific Hospital Group, Makati Medical Center (MMC) and Cardinal Santos Medical Center (CSMC), the DLSMC medical team provided free medicines and medical consultations to 300 residents of the said barangay.

The medical mission coincided with the 2019 PBA Philippine Cup’s Laban ng Norte game between the NLEX Road Warriors and Barangay Ginebra, which was held at the nearby Angeles University Foundation Arena two days later.

Led by their coaches Yeng Guiao and Tim Cone, players from both teams took time out from practice to visit the medical mission to the delight of the residents who were able to greet their sports idols and had photos taken with them.

DLSMC sent a team of internal medicine doctors, pediatricians, pharmacists and nurses to the area, with Marketing staff assisting in the endeavor.

The NLEX Road Warriors pose with DLSMC doctors, staff, and some patients during the Laban ng Norte medical mission in Pampanga.

DLSMC Partners withNLEX for Pampanga

Medical Mission



“Dr. Syquia explained the long term benefits of the surgery to me and even though I was scared, I chose to have it done,” Maggie reveals. “I made the decision to walk again and to be able to do the things that I loved to do before the pain affected my life.”

Under the expert hands of Dr. Syquia and through the comprehensive joint replacement surgery packages at DLSMC, Maggie underwent total hip replacement surgery. The procedure took about two hours since the hip bones were deformed as a result of the severe cartilage damage.

An important part of recovery is physical therapy. The package includes two physical therapy sessions per day while admitted. Maggie was determined to recover as fast as she could and she started her walking exercises two days after the surgery.

“Ms. dela Riva was determined to return to her normal activities as soon as she could,” Dr. Syquia explains. “She was very motivated and that is important in a patient. Full recovery is a team effort and the patient, who happens to be the most important member of the team, plays a very big role in that recovery.”

Maggie underwent physical therapy to strengthen her weakened muscles and improve her gait at DLSMC’s world-class Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Center. She completed 23 sessions under the supervision of the highly-trained staff and made continual progress. Six months after the hip replacement surgery, Maggie was free from her walker.

“My life really improved after the procedure,” Maggie recalls. “From being practically immobile and in constant pain, I was back on my feet and back to doing things I love, like hosting Say Mo Doc, spending time with friends and loved ones, and enjoying life again. For those suffering from OA who might need to have this type of surgery, I would highly recommend having it done so that you can enjoy life once more. If you are scared of the cost, DLSMC has affordable packages. The doctors are kind, very proficient, and

compassionate, and orthopedics is a De Los Santos Medical Center specialty.”

DLSMC, a member of Manuel V. Pangilinan’s MVP Group of Companies under the Metro Pacific Hospital Holdings, Inc. (MPHHI) banner, offers comprehensive and affordable packages for knee and hip replacement surgeries that include hospital stay, rehabilitation, professional fees, and US-made implants through its Arthritis Center. Expert orthopedic surgeons are available to ensure that patients can walk away from the pain and get back to doing what they love.

“It’s easy to believe that your life will never be enjoyable again when you experience the debilitating pain osteoarthritis can bring,” Maggie admits. “But it’s definitely not the end. With these incredible surgical options, amazing doctors, and some grit and determination on your part, you can still get back to a normal and happy life free from the pain of arthritis.”

Standing (and walking) tall: Maggie with her surgeon Dr. Jose Fernando Syquia

Maggie dela Riva:On her feet again after hip replacement surgery

O steoarthritis (OA), sometimes called degenerative joint disease or degenerative arthritis, is the most common chronic condition of the joints around the world. In the

Philippines, its prevalence is 0.5% in individuals aged 20 years and increases to 11% for people who are 60 years and older. This translates to roughly 10 million Filipinos with the disease and this number is expected to double in the next decade.

OA can affect any joint but most often occurs in the knees, hips, lower back, neck, and the small joints of the fingers. In normal joints, cartilage provides a smooth surface for joint motion and acts as a cushion between the ends of the bones. In OA, the cartilage breaks down causing pain, swelling, and problems with movement. As OA worsens, bone spurs are formed. In the end stage of OA, the cartilage is all but gone causing bone to rub against bone resulting in severe pain and joint damage.

For former actress and GMA News TV “Say Mo Doc” television host Maggie dela Riva, osteoarthritis

became a painful reality in 2013 when she went for a checkup due to an ache in her hip. She was diagnosed with OA and told that she would eventually need to have a hip replacement as medicines would soon have no effect on her pain. Understandably, she wanted to avoid surgery and put off the hip replacement for

as long as she could. By 2018, however, she could no longer bear the severe pain.

“I went to visit my sister in Australia and the pain became unbearable,” she recalls. “I was already using a cane at the time but it hurt so much that I could barely walk. At the airport I had to request for a wheelchair just to get to the baggage claim area because my hip hurt so much.”

Maggie spent three months in Australia with her sister and the pain became progressively worse. When she finally returned to Manila, she went in for a checkup with Dr. Jose Fernando Syquia, head of the Arthritis Center of De Los Santos Medical Center (DLSMC). He explained to Maggie that the damage to her hip had progressed to the point that hip replacement would be her best option for treatment. “When I saw Ms. dela Riva, her incapacity had become so severe that she already needed a wheelchair to move around. The cane no longer worked and the medicines were not helping her at all,” Dr. Syquia shares. “I explained to her that among her remaining treatment options, it would be a joint replacement that would bring her back to the quality of life that she used to enjoy before she was disabled by her arthritis.”

Hip replacement surgery is a procedure in which an orthopedic doctor surgically removes the painful and damaged hip joint and replaces it with an artificial joint. It is done when other treatment options have failed to provide adequate pain relief. The surgeons at the Arthritis Center use a new approach known as “SuperPATH”. Through an incision that is about 3 inches or shorter, the damaged hip joint is replaced. The biggest advantage of such an approach is that there is minimal soft tissue and muscle damage associated with its use.

Road to redemption: Ms. Maggie dela Riva during her rehabilitation 15



An Inside Look at Kidney Transplantation

A ccording to the Philippine Renal Disease Registry (PRDR) Annual Report, the Renal Disease Control Program (REDCOP), the National Kidney and Transplant Institute

(NKTI), and the Epidemiology Bureau (EB) of the Department of Health (DOH), there was a total of 525 kidney transplant patients in 2017 while there were 20,776 hemodialysis patients in 2016. In Metro Manila alone, it is said that there are more than 200 patients waiting for a phone call that will inform them that a compatible kidney has been found for them. It is also estimated that there are over 7,000 end stage renal disease (ESRD) patients who are on the waiting list for renal transplant, and the list continues to grow.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is the gradual loss of kidney function. It is usually caused by diabetes; high blood pressure or hypertension; and glomerulonephritis, an inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units. CKD almost always progresses to ESRD or kidney failure, which will require renal replacement therapy such as dialysis or transplantation.

The Hemodialysis Unit and Kidney Transplant Unit of De Los Santos Medical Center are devoted to assisting its patients with all their renal replacement needs. While dialysis is a viable form of treatment for CKD and ESRD, experts say that kidney transplantation remains the best option for patients to be able to return to normal living. Indeed, both hospital units believe that kidney transplantation is safe, affordable, and sustainable.

Last October 15 and 20, 2018, DLSMC’s Kidney Transplant Unit, together with

the Marketing team, held a seminar and forum entitled The Insiders’

Guide to Kidney Transplant.

The event aimed to educate patients, medical professionals, and staff about the said treatment option. The insiders were composed of nephrologists, kidney transplant coordinators, PhilHealth personnel, and other health professionals, who all shared their insights and expertise to patients and medical staff alike regarding the conduct of kidney transplantation. Topics that were discussed included an overview of kidney disease, the kidney transplant procedure, having a renal diet, and how to process PhilHealth requirements and documents.

De Los Santos Medical Center is the first private level 3 hospital in Quezon City to be accredited for the PhilHealth Z Benefit Package for kidney transplantation. Under the package, PhilHealth will subsidize the costs of the kidney transplant, making the procedure more affordable for eligible PhilHealth members. With this, a patient’s chance of having quality of life is finally within reach.

By: Richard C. Domingo

Right: Nephrologist J Meinard Nepomuceno, MD discusses the causes of kidney disease.Bottom: The audience during the seminar.

the official newsletter of de los santos medical center

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