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First in Western Visayas: The Medical City Iloilo launches Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program

According to a study, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is currently the 4th leading cause of death in the world and is projected to rank third by 2020.

Marietta B. Cambel, TMC Iloilo Patient Partner; Cris Eden Claire Delfin, TMC Iloilo Nutritionist; Dr. Rhea Anne Celis, TMC Iloilo Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Champion Doctor; Dr. Felix Ray Villa, TMC Iloilo CEO; Dr. Sheenly Vi Soresca, TMC Iloilo Pulmonary Department Head; and Dr. Donaldo Nicanor Tubang, TMC iloilo Psychiatrist led the ceremonial finger printing of the "Breath of Hope".

COPD Explained

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs.

Symptoms include breathing difficulty, cough, mucus (sputum) production and wheezing
Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two most common conditions that contribute to COPD.





But no need to be alarmed since COPD is treatable. With proper management, most people with COPD can achieve good symptom control and quality of life, as well as reduced risk of other associated conditions. (www.mayoclinic.org)

Another first for TMCI

To answer the increasing trend of COPD patients, The Medical City Iloilo, Western Visayas' trailblazer in healthcare, is opening the first and only Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program in the region that will give Ilonggos and those living in the neighboring provinces a holistic approach to treat chronic lung disease.

“TMC Iloilo Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program will be another treatment option to patients who are suffering from chronic lung problems such as asthma, bronchitis and bronchietasis, among others. Thus, improving their condition and decreases their chances of hospitalization,” said Dr. Rhea Anne Celis, TMC Iloilo Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Doctor Champion.

Dr. Rhea Anne Celis, TMC Iloilo Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Doctor Champion

As the head of TMC Iloilo Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program, Dr. Celis is the only medical professional in Iloilo with this specialization giving the Ilonggos the opportunity, assurance and convenience of availing this program without leaving Iloilo.

The TMC Iloilo Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program

After passing the initial tests upon enrollment, patients will work with a team of expert specialists who will guide them to manage their illness to stay healthy and active long after they complete the program.


The said program has different stages designed to have a comprehensive and holistic approach. These include:

  1. Pre-Rehab and Post-Rehab Assessments (Spirometry and 6-minute Walk Test)
  2. Exercise Program (Upper Ergometer, bike/treadmill, and exercise with Physical Therapist), and 
  3. Patient Education (Nutrition Counseling, Psychological Evaluation, Physical Therapy Assessment and Pulmonary Lecture).
 Iloilo bloggers and media toured around the Cardio-Pulmo and Physical Rehab Departments of TMC Iloilo where the assessment and tests of the Pulmonary Rehab program are being performed.

“Apart from the treatment itself, what’s good about enrolling in TMC Iloilo Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program is that, patients will also be able to receive education, nutritional intervention, and psychosocial support which are also important components of the program”, Dr. Celis noted.


For inquiries about TMC Iloilo Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program, call (033) 500-1000 or email info@themedicalcityiloilo.com. Also log on www.themedicalcityiloilo.com for updates.




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