OCTA: Metro Manila healthcare utilization still ‘manageable’ despite increase in Covid-19 infections

The OCTA Research Group on Tuesday, July 26, monitored an increase in healthcare utilization rate in Metro Manila but it has remained below the concerning level of 50 percent.

“HCUR (healthcare utilization rate) in the NCR (National Capital Region) increased to 31.7 percent, as of July 24, from 30.7 percent , while ICU occupancy increased from 24 percent to 27.3 percent,” OCTA fellow Dr. Guido David said in an update posted on Twitter.

In a televised briefing on Monday, July 25, David pointed out that as long as healthcare utilization does not increase above 50 percent, the Covid-19 cases will still be manageable.

He said the Covid situation is “not alarming” yet but reminded the public to stay vigilant and continue to practice minimum public health protocols and to have their vaccination or booster against Covid-19.

Meanwhile, the Covid-19 healthcare utilization rates in select areas in the country have been above 50 percent.

“HCUR in Bohol and Iloilo remained above 50 percent, ICU occupancy in Lucena City increased above 50 percent,” David said.

Based on OCTA’s monitoring, healthcare utilization in Bohol was at 57.7 percent, while in Iloilo City—not including Iloilo City—was at 52.4 percent.

Moreover, ICU occupancy for Covid-19 patients was at 60 percent in Lucena City.