by Iris Tomas, RN and Perly Bermudez, RMT
The Newborn Screening Continuity Clinic (NBSCC) of Zamboanga City Medical Center (ZCMC), in partnership with the Department of Health – Center for Health Development Zamboanga Peninsula, conducted a lay forum for parents and caregivers of patients with Congenital Hypothyroidism (CH) and Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) on June 2, 2025. The event was held at the Grand Astoria Hotel, Zamboanga City, and was attended by 18 patients with CH and CAH from various provinces of the Zamboanga Peninsula.
The forum began with a lecture by Dr. Charlie Hernandez, pediatric resident at ZCMC who provided an overview of the disorders. The session aimed to enhance the parents’ understanding and capacity to manage their children’s conditions effectively. Following the discussion, the parents raised relevant questions and participated in fun games that encouraged bonding and peer support.
Patient consultations were also conducted and led by Dr. Mirasol S. Ellong, head of NBSCC ZCMC, together with pediatric residents from the ZCMC—Dr. Charlie Hernandez, Dr. Floro Dave Arnuco, and Dr. Sherley Ver Saladaga. The patients also received free medicines, including levothyroxine, fludrocortisone, and hydrocortisone.
The activity expanded the participants’ knowledge and fostered meaningful connections among families, providing a platform to share experiences and strategies for better care of children with CH and CAH.
