Private hospitals urged not to refuse coronavirus patients

The Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PHAPi) has urged its member hospitals not to refuse treatment to patients suspected of having the 2019-novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV).

PHAPi president Dr. Rustico Jimenez reminded hospitals that discriminating against patients goes against their commitment and the Hippocratic Oath.

He acknowledged that some private hospitals may not have the adequate facilities to handle 2019-nCoV cases.

Jimenez suggested that hospitals without sufficient facilities designate an area outside their premises for initial history-taking and examinations.

Patients suspected of having the virus would then be referred to appropriate hospitals with adequate facilities if deemed necessary after initial assessment.

PHAPi has over 600 member-private hospitals nationwide.