PGH launches ‘Tele-Kumusta’ app for COVID-19 patients

The Philippine General Hospital (PGH) found a way to connect COVID-19 patients with their loved ones even as they remained under strict isolation.

According to a 24 Oras report by Sandra Aguinaldo, the “Tele-Kumusta” application allows COVID-19 patients to see and speak to their loved ones virtually.

“Nakita po namin na nagla-lighten up po ‘yung mukha ng pasyente, nakikita mo na masaya siya, parang nabuhuhayan. Tapos gano’n din naman sa mga kamag-anak, siyempre nagiging panatag ang loob,” PGH spokesman Dr. Jonas Del Rosario said.

The hospital currently has four laptops dedicated for virtual visits.

Each patient is allowed to speak to their loved ones for a maximum of 30 minutes.

However, the service is only offered to COVID-19 patients with mild to moderate symptoms.

“Kung ang pasyente po ay malubha na… mahirap pong gawin ‘yun, medyo maselan po ‘yung gano’ng sitwasyon,” Del Rosario explained.

A total of 97 COVID-19 patients are currently admitted to the PGH, while the hospital has reported 20 deaths and 16 recoveries.

PGH is among the first healthcare facilities in the country to be designated as a COVID-19 hospital. — Julia Mari Ornedo/DVM, GMA News