MEMBERS of the Healthcare Professionals Alliance Against Covid-19 (HPAAC) on Friday, September 3, 2021, became emotional over the exponential rise in coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) cases that has overwhelmed some hospitals.
"Our worst fears are already happening. The healthcare system can no longer respond to the cases of Covid-19," HPAAC co-convenor Dr. Maricar Limpin said in a virtual press conference.
"Many healthcare workers are tired, angry, emotional, and resigning from their jobs. Our hearts are bleeding and we apologize to patients that we have to refused admission," she added.
She said many healthcare workers have also fallen ill. They are risking their lives and even those of their spouses, parents and children, she added.
Limpin pointed out how the Department of Health (DOH) case bulletins do not do justice to what is happening on the ground.
"The data you are getting does not match what is really happening in the communities and hospitals," she said.
Limpin warned that the worst has yet to come.
"For the public, the situation will get worse. The pandemic will get more serious," said Limpin.
The HPAAC called on both the national and local governments to improve their Covid-19 response systems.
The group also appealed to the government to provide adequate assistance and benefits to their respective healthcare workers.
At the same time, the HPAAC urged the public to do their part by practicing minimum public health standards and stay at home as much as possible.
The National Capital Region (NCR) and neighboring provinces are posting the fastest increase in Covid-19 cases, believed to be driven by the highly infectious Delta variant. (HDT / SunStar Philippines)