The Department of Occupational Therapy of the College of Rehabilitation Sciences launched its first virtual clinic on July 29, 2021 though an online event. Formally known as Aruga UST OT Clinic, this is the virtual therapy and wellness center of the department.
In the conceptualization of Aruga, it was quickly identified that it will be able to fill multiple needs of both the department and the community at large. Aruga provides an avenue for occupational therapy interns to receive quality training and an opportunity for the department to serve the UST community and its partners through the provision of free occupational therapy services. Aruga has as its mission to impart quality education and training to occupational therapy interns, to go beyond the provision of service in physical clinics and extend the reach of occupational therapy services to more people through telehealth, and to empower clients and their families to be able to overcome their difficulties and limitations.
From planning and meetings beginning in December of 2020, Aruga opened its doors to receive its first clients on July 1, 2021. Partner institutions include the UST Human Resource Department, Parent Advocates for Visually Impaired Children (PAVIC), Balay Tulul-anan, UST Simbahayan, UST Health Service, and UST Psychotrauma Clinic.
The grand launch was well attended by university officials, led by Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs Cheryl R. Peralta, DrPH, faculty members, interns and distinguised guests from partner organizations and institutions, all of whom were welcomed by Assoc. Prof. Anne Marie C. Aseron, MSPT, Dean of the College of Rehabilitation Sciences. This was followed by a presentation about the Aruga UST OT Clinic, showcasing the history, background, goals and programs of the clinic, which are delivered by Charles Bermejo, MSOT, OTRP, Zha Nella Canja, MFLCD, OTRP, Gillian Ollet, MAEd, OTRP, Ma. Carol Mae Protacio, MSOT, OTRP, at Allan James Tan, MSOT, OTRP, and OT Department Chair Asst. Prof. Kathlene Anne Hernandez, MHPEd, OTR, OTRP.
For more information, visit www.facebook.com/arugaUSTotclinic/.
