Since its establishment in 2017, the Dermatology department of the government hospital Rizal Medical Centre (RizalMed) has remained steadfast in its commitment in providing responsive, affordable, comprehensive, and excellent healthcare services for all.
Notably, the department has earned recognition as an advanced comprehensive dermatology centre by the Philippine Department of Health, tasked with offering specialised services, including a dedicated Psoriasis Centre. Annually, the department caters to over 15,000 consultations, with an average of 1,000 unique patients seeking care at the Psoriasis Centre.
RizalMed Dermatology department has developed an evidence-based psoriasis clinical pathway, adopted by the Philippine Dermatological Society. Regular monitoring and analysing of variances from this pathway enable the implementation of appropriate action plans to enhance patient care.
The department also emphasises a multidisciplinary approach to care, fostering collaborations with various specialities. Patients with psoriasis benefit from an efficient referral system to departments such as Nutrition and Dietetics, Internal Medicine, Rheumatology, and Mental Hygiene Clinic.
To remain at the forefront of technological advancements, RizalMed Dermatology consistently updates its treatment options for psoriasis. This includes advocating for the inclusion of new treatments in the national formulary and Philhealth packages. The department has also leveraged the ubiquity of smartphones and online connectivity to establish teledermatology services.
In addition, it has also collaborated with the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Health Research and Development and identified research priorities aligned with the national health agenda.
RizalMed Dermatology also values the importance of continuous skills development and encourages participation in relevant conferences. Through partnerships with organizations such as Psoriasis Philippines, the department cultivates and advocates for increased awareness and support for psoriasis patients. Having a dedicated rescue progra also helps the department ensure immediate care for psoriasis patients requiring acute or intensive management.
This unwavering commitment to compassionate and healthcare delivery not just for psoriasis patients, but for all patients, highlights RizalMed Dermatology’s cutting-edge treatment options guided by six core competencies: adherence to standards of care and efficient process flows, fostering a holistic multidisciplinary approach, embracing innovative, technologies, conducting relevant research, maintaining a competent workforce, and advocating steadfastly for patients.
The Healthcare Asia Awards 2024 recognised this dedication and granted the department with the Specialty Clinic of the Year – Philippines category win. The prestigious awards programme recognises exceptional healthcare providers that have redefined the standards of healthcare through their unwavering dedication to innovation, setting of new industry benchmarks, and substantial contributions to their communities.
