For many years now the FCJ Learning and Development Center, in the outskirts of Manila, has been running a weekly clinic. The clinic used to take place in a multi-purpose room upstairs, but in June this year a newly renovated clinic room was opened. The new clinic, at ground level, is more accessible to patients with physical disability and is equipped with a new examination bed. The staff of the clinic is composed of the doctor, our nurse, Sister Ciony fcJ, Rhodora, who dispenses the medicines and keeps the medical records, and five Community Health Workers who take turns to be on duty. Each patient is interviewed by the nurse or CHW and their vital signs are taken before they meet the doctor. Patients receive the medicines prescribed by the doctor. If they are able, they make a small donation, if not, the consultation and the medicines are free. Strict Department of Health protocols are followed so as to keep everyone safe.
Beginning next month, in response to the request of the community there, the FCJ Center will also offer a monthly clinic in Area 5 and open a Botika (small pharmacy) which will sell over the counter generic and herbal medicines at a very low cost.
Patients with diabetes, hypertension and other chronic conditions, as well as children with primary tuberculosis, receive on-going accompaniment and monitoring. In the community there are several adults and children living with various kinds of disability. They and their families receive care and support to access the specialist services they need. The FCJ Center also runs a Health Education Program that offers a range of information and advice to promote good health and wellness. As well as the face to face consultations and home visits, the staff makes good use of the FCJ Center Facebook page to reach the wider community. We pray that all will remain safe at this challenging and difficult time, especially those who are most vulnerable.
