On December 4, 2023, Makati Medical Center proudly commemorated the dedication and expertise of twenty two (22) registered nurses who successfully completed the First Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) Nurse Academy in the Philippines. Makati Med has been selected as the inaugural host for the ILD Nurse Academy, demonstrating its commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning and excellence in patient care.
Planning and organization of the program began on June 5, 2023. Furthermore, the partnership with Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines Inc., represented by Dr. Giovanni Nazario, the medical advisor for Interstitial Lung Disease and Ms. Ma. Theresa Fernandez, Medical Scientific liaison, and respiratory specialist, reflects a collaborative effort to promote excellence in ILD nursing care through knowledge sharing, educational resources, and ongoing support.
The ILD Nurse Academy is a pioneering educational initiative led by Dr. Alfred C. Apostol, a pulmonary consultant, together with Dr. Jyn Cabal-Sablan, pulmonologist, Dr. Genevieve Katigbak, rheumatologist, and Dr. Daryl De Ramos, pulmonary intensivist, aiming to equip nurses with the specialized knowledge and skills required to deliver exceptional care to individuals with ILD.
Working alongside Dr. Apostol are esteemed nursing leaders Ms. Eda Bernadette Bodegon, MAN, RN the Chief Nursing Officer of the NPCS division, Mr. Alexander Sangoyo, MAN RN, the AVP for Specialty Nursing Services, Ms. Nerissa Lagarico MAN RN, the AVP of General Nursing Services units, and Mr. Daryl Jeremiah Gaba MAN RN, the AVP for Nursing Support Services. The program has been established with the support of the Nursing Education Research and Development (NERD), whose dedication and commitment to advancing nursing education and patient care are instrumental to the success of the program.
The ILD Nurse Academy aims to enhance nurses’ understanding of ILD pathophysiology, diagnostic approaches, treatment modalities, symptom management, patient education, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the psychosocial aspects of care. Through a comprehensive curriculum that was held from August 14 to December 4, 2023, the 22 RNs gained the knowledge and skills necessary to provide holistic care to ILD patients, ultimately improving patient outcome and quality of life.
By empowering nurses with specialized education and resources, the program is poised to make a meaningful impact on the lives of ILD patients and their families. As the first hospital to conduct the program, Makati Medical Center sets a precedent for other healthcare institutions, highlighting the importance of specialized training for nurses involved in ILD care.
