P1B funding eyed for high-flow oxygen devices for COVID-19 patients

MANILA, Philippines — The Health Facility and Services Development Team of the Department of Health (DOH) has proposed a P1 billion funding for the procurement of 2,550 units of high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC), an oxygen support device to help provide relief to COVID-19 patients.

The DOH said Thursday that the funding was suggested to be included in the proposed Bayanihan 3, which aims to provide an additional budget to help in the country’s pandemic response.

There are currently a total of 1,318 HFNC in private and public hospitals in Metro Manila, according to DOH, but “more units are needed due to the surge in NCR COVID-19 cases.”

There are a total of 883 mechanical ventilators dedicated for COVID-19 patients, said the DOH.

As of March 24, the utilization rate for mechanical ventilators in Metro Manila is at 51 percent with 451 units being used.

“Our hospitals in regions nearby NCR are on alert and on standby to receive patients should occupancy rates of our beds and ventilators exceed capacity,” the DOH added.