More than 50 healthcare professionals from the City Health Office (CHO), including doctors, nurses, and midwives, participated in a comprehensive three-day Philippine Integrated Management of Acute Malnutrition (PIMAM) Training held from August 19-21, 2024, at Veranda Casisang, Malaybalay City.

The training, which focused on updated protocols and guidelines, aimed to enhance the skills and knowledge of these professionals in managing acute malnutrition within their respective communities.

The first day of the training began with a welcome address by Dr. Melirose Deticio, Rural Health Physician, followed by a message from Dr. Dennis P. Sangalang, the CHO Head, which set the tone for the program. City Nutrition Action Officer Eza C. Canonigo then led an expectation-setting session before participants took a pretest to assess their baseline knowledge. The day’s lectures covered topics such as an introduction to PIMAM, the identification of acute malnutrition, community mobilization, and governance.

On the second day, participants focused into more specialized topics, including outpatient and inpatient therapeutic care, counseling and education, and the management of moderate acute malnutrition. These modules were designed to provide a deeper understanding of the complexities of malnutrition treatment.

The final day of the training focused on practical application, with participants engaging in return demonstrations and practicum sessions to solidify their learning. The hands-on experience ensured that participants were well-prepared to apply the updated protocols in their respective healthcare settings.

The event was facilitated by CHO personnel, including Dr. Kim T. Luardo, Dr. Melirose Deticio, and Eza Canonigo, Nutrition Officer III. They were joined by CHO midwives, Kharl Karen T. Libot, a Nurse III, and Mhegan L. Dominguez, Health Education and Promotion Officer III, alongside NDP nurses.

Interns from Central Mindanao University’s Nutrition and Dietetics program also played a crucial role in supporting the training.

Reported by: Mhegan L. Dominguez HEPO III, CHO NADA