CSMC launches urgent care for non-critical patients

The Cardinal Santos Medical Center (CSMC) recently launched its Urgent Care Clinic to provide immediate assistance to patients with non-critical conditions such as coughs, colds, and sore throats.

In an interview with Daily Tribune’s Straight Talk, Dr. Mys Punzalan-Tirol, head of Ancillary Services at CSMC, said the new department will provide care for patients with minor illnesses or injuries that are not life-threatening.

“If you need fast, walk-in treatment for conditions that need attention right away but are not severe enough for a trip to the [emergency room] (ER), then our Urgent Care Clinic is certainly a good option for you,” Punzalan-Tirol said.

Certain conditions that would require someone to seek attention at the Urgent Care Clinic include back pain, muscle pain, or eye irritations.

“Or if you feel like you might have a [urinary tract infection]. All these conditions affect you, and you might want to see a doctor, but if you do not want to wait for your next doctor’s available appointment, then you can visit us at the Urgent Care Clinic, and we’ll take care of it,” she added.

How fast is fast, you ask? Punzalan-Tirol said if it’s something that needs to be seen within the next 48 hours but not immediately, then those are the conditions they cater to in their new department.

Even though they just started operating last month, the physician said there are already quite a number of patients. However, she assured that “there are processes in place” so new patients will not have to wait long.

“You will be seen right away,” she added.

Punzalan-Tirol also clarified that patients can simply walk in — no appointment needed — and seek medical attention at the Urgent Care Clinic.

If a patient needs to be checked in the ER, Punzalan-Tirol said they won’t have to worry, as the clinic is right next to it.

“If you come in as a new patient, you will be triaged, and if your concern is for the Urgent Care Clinic, you will be directed there straight away. There are doctors and nurses there. Our healthcare team is on hand,” she assured.

The Urgent Care Clinic also conducts laboratory tests and X-rays if deemed necessary, she added.

The clinic also provides fit-to-work clearances, preemployment screenings, medical consultations and follow-up vaccinations for animal bites.

A new health trend

Punzalan-Tirol said this is the new health trend now, as ERs often get quite filled up.

“Because Urgent Care addresses non-emergency conditions, this helps us streamline our own processes and cases at the ER,” she explained.

“This ensures that those who need immediate care will get it.”

CSMC’s Urgent Care Clinic is open from Monday to Saturday, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.