In-person internship, clerkship suspended in Metro Manila hospitals as COVID-19 cases rise

MANILA, Philippines — With new COVID-19 cases increasing in Metro Manila, the Association of Philippine Medical Colleges (APMC) has suspended face-to-face internship and clerkship rotation in hospitals in the region “until further notice.”

“All learning activities may be continued in virtual mode,” the APMC said in an advisory issued on Sunday.

For areas outside Metro Manila where COVID-19 cases are also rising, the APMC gave hospital directors the prerogative to “decide on the suspension of face-to-face rotation” guided by announcements from local and national government officials.

For clinical clerkship programs, the APMC said deans of medical schools could decide on the suspension of its face-to-face rotation if the Commission on Higher Education would not issue specific directives.

It also reminded the observance of the Universal Pandemic Precaution on the wearing of face mask and shield, physical distancing, frequent handwashing, and keeping the workplace well ventilated and routinely disinfected.

“We also advise all eligible persons to have their COVID-19 vaccination soon as an added protection,” it added.

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On Sunday, the Philippines recorded more than 3,000 new COVID-19 cases for the third consecutive day.

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