Adult Neurology Section holds lay forum for patients with PD

On 26 April 2019, the residents and attending physicians of the Section of Adult Neurology organized a lay forum for patients with Parkinson disease (PD) at the Neurosciences Conference Room, Philippine General Hospital. Dr. Nico Dimal, third year resident and the lead organizer of the event, set the program in train with a welcoming remarks. Dr. Mark Mondia guaranteed smooth transition of discussions as the forum moderator and host.

Patients with PD and their kin graced the forum to full house. Dr. Christian Turalde, second year resident, delivered a lecture on pathophysiology and signs and symptoms of PD. Dr. Rosalia Teleg, neurophysiology chief of the National Kidney and Transplant Institute and an expert in movement disorders, talked about remedies for PD signs and symptoms. The medical students rotating in neurosciences reinforced the topics discussed with their creative presentation. Involvement of kin and significant others in the care of patients with PD was emphasized as Dr. Gerald Pagaling discussed the selfless role of caregivers to patients with PD. “Ang PD ay hindi lang karamdaman ng pasyente kung hindi karamdaman din ng buong pamilya,” Turalde exclaimed to give emphasis to the impact of the condition to the dynamics of the family. Dr. April Riego-Pedro of the rehabilitation medicine department capped the didactics with her lecture on rehabilitation for PD.

Dr. Jamora, in his closing remarks, concluded the program by emphasizing that the forum, as an annual gathering, was one of the department’s instrument to carry out its task of improving clinical outcomes and quality of life of patients with movement disorders.