Programs : Medical Programs

The ICM Medical Program provides healthcare services to those who are unable, through lack of knowledge or funds, to seek this assistance from the Philippine healthcare system. The medical program has three key streams: Open Air Clinics, The Care Recovery Shelter, and Special Medical Cases.

Medical Open Air Clinics (OACs)

ICM’s medical clinics bring trained medical professionals to poor communities that lack access to adequate medical care. Open to the entire community, the clinics offer medical assessments, medicine and, for those with more serious conditions, referrals to doctors in the community who volunteer their services to ICM patients. Emotional and spiritual counseling is provided by the partner church in the community.

Highlights of the OAC Program in 2007/08 include:

• Number of OACs operated: 2000
• Number of patients seen: 79,812
• Doses of medicine administered: 2,005,923
• Referrals to local doctors: 1,292

Tuberculosis Care Recovery Shelter (CRS)

ICM’s CRS provides residential medical care for chronic TB patients. As patients recover over their usual stay of six to nine months, they receive three substantial meals each day, housing and courses on primary health education and the basics in Christian living. Patients also receive training in container farming techniques and livelihood opportunities, for which they each receive a micro loan for start up of that livelihood upon leaving the Shelter.

Highlights of the CRS in 2007/08 include:

• Number of patients treated: 78
• Doses of medicine administered: 51,216
• Number of meals served: 85,410

Note: In 2007/08 CRS was not run at full capacity. 2008/09 is budgeted for full capacity of 96 patients.

Special Medical Case Funds

Donor-established funds cover the costs of serious medical procedures for patients who cannot afford them. Examples of the conditions suffered by patients include severe electrical burns, hernias, broken limbs, cancer and complicated pregnancies. At the end of the year, donors receive a report on those who have benefited from their giving.

Highlights of the Special Medical Cases in 2007/08 include:

• Number of patients receiving special medical cases status: 3,210
• Number of special medical case funds established in 2007/08: 48

Note: Medical crisis cases are funded primarily through off-budget private funds from donors.

James who lives in Bohol is 16 years old. He became progressively sick over the last year until he was so weak that he could no longer stand unaided. His weight dropped and his hair fell out. He quit school. When ICM held an open-air clinic in his town James’ mother insisted that he go. He could not walk himself so his brothers carried him to the clinic in a chair. The medical staff referred James and his mother to an ICM partner doctor who was able to diagnose diabetes. An SMC fund paid for his insulin for the next year and James has made a remarkable recovery. His hair has grown back, his weight increased and he is able to attend school again.Reported by Anna Mayhugh – staff, Bohol