As a recognized leader in healthcare, the Cardinal Santos Medical Center (CSMC) continues to introduce innovative and accessible patient care to Filipinos.

Just recently, patients with non-life-threatening injuries or illnesses that require immediate attention received attention through CSMC’s launching of its Urgent Care Clinic.

According to Dr. Mys Punzalan-Tirol, head of Ancillary Services at CSMC, the new department provides immediate assistance to patients with non-critical conditions such as coughs, colds and sore throats.

“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, then our Urgent Care Clinic is certainly a good option for you,” Punzalan-Tirol said on DAILY TRIBUNE’s weekly program Straight Talk.

Patients, she said, can just simply walk in — no appointment needed — and be assured that they “will be seen right away.”

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

CSMC’s Urgent Care Clinic also ensures that those who need immediate care will get it.

One of the standout features of the Urgent Care Clinic is its accessibility. This walk-in model ensures that individuals receive timely care. Such an approach not only reduces the burden on emergency rooms but also provides a practical solution for busy patients who may struggle to schedule appointments amidst their daily routines.

The launch of this clinic aligns with CSMC’s broader vision of delivering compassionate, patient-centered care.

By offering a dedicated space for non-critical urgent conditions, the hospital enhances its ability to serve a wider range of medical needs while maintaining its reputation for excellence.

The initiative also underscores CSMC’s adaptability, responding to the growing demand for quick and reliable healthcare options in an era where convenience and efficiency are increasingly valued.

This new service complements CSMC’s existing array of specialized offerings, such as its renowned programs in cardiology, oncology, neurosurgery and rehabilitation medicine.

With the Urgent Care Clinic, CSMC reinforces its role as a comprehensive healthcare provider, ensuring that whether a patient requires advanced treatment or immediate attention for a minor issue, they can find the care they need under one roof.

As healthcare needs continue to evolve, CSMC’s proactive steps like this demonstrate its dedication to staying at the forefront of medical innovation and patient support in the Philippines.

‘Tour of Luzon’

To boost CSMC’s advocacy on keeping healthy, the premier hospital has partnered with Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation and Duckworld PH, organizers of Tour of Luzon, the most prestigious professional cycling race in the country since 1955.

CSMC will provide cyclists in the competition with comprehensive medical support, including doctors, nurses, ambulances and its Hospital on Wheels, ensuring the safety and well-being of competitors.

“We’re excited and very honored. Cardinal Santos is very honored to be part of this historic revival of the most prestigious cycling event in Asia,” Punzalan-Tirol said.

“It’s been five years since the last event, so we are very much looking forward to be Tour of Luzon’s medical arm,” she added.

After it was discontinued since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, the iconic race is back to see cyclists tackle challenging route from the beaches of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte to the heights of Baguio, Benguet from 24 April to 1 May.

According to Punzalan-Tirol, Duckworld PH personally handpicked them to be the medical partner of the organizers.

“Cardinal has always had its commitment for healthcare regardless of whether sports or not,” she added.

Heat-related illnesses

Turning to routine health care, Punzalan-Tirol, an ophthalmologist, warned about the common heat-related illnesses that come with the hot weather during the dry season.

“Certainly, dry eye. There are tests that we can do for a dry eye because there are different kinds and different levels of severity, but for the most part, lubricant eye drops help,” she said.

For those who are sensitive to heat, Punzalan-Tirol advised them to constantly hydrate, cover-up and lessen the time spent outdoors, especially the elderly.

Heat stroke, she added, is life-threatening, that’s why she underscored the importance of staying hydrated.