Dysphagia Care in Vigan:
Elite Diagnostics & Transparent Cost.

When a loved one is struggling to eat after a stroke, or when an elderly relative begins to choke on their water, the emotional panic is often followed by a very practical question: "Where do we go, and how much is this going to cost?"

In the Philippines, navigating specialized medical care can be daunting. Many families believe they have to travel to Manila to access high-tech diagnostics like FEES (Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing). Others worry that specialized care will be prohibitively expensive.

At TeraCare Vigan, we have built a clinic that challenges both of these assumptions. We provide world-class, board-certified Physiatry and Dysphagia care right here in Ilocos Sur, with a commitment to absolute financial transparency and clinical excellence.

The True Cost of Dysphagia: Assessment vs. Pneumonia

Before we discuss the price of a swallow test, we must discuss the cost of inaction.

Untreated dysphagia is the leading cause of Aspiration Pneumonia. In the Philippines, a single hospital admission for severe pneumonia can cost between ₱50,000 to ₱150,000 or more, depending on the length of stay and ICU requirements. This doesn't include the physical toll on the patient or the lost wages of the family caregivers.

A Dysphagia Assessment at TeraCare is a small fraction of that cost. It is a one-time investment in prevention that can save your family from the emotional and financial catastrophe of a preventable hospital emergency.

Why TeraCare Vigan is the Destination for Northern Luzon

We serve patients from all over Ilocos Sur, Ilocos Norte, and Abra. Families choose us because we bridge the gap between "Basic Care" and "Specialized Hospital Diagnostics."

• Board-Certified Expertise: Dr. Ben Rabara is a board-certified Physiatrist. Unlike general practitioners, he is specifically trained in the mechanical and neurological rehabilitation of the human body.
• High-Definition FEES Technology: We don't just "watch you eat." we use advanced endoscopic cameras to provide visual proof of your swallowing safety. This technology is the gold standard for detecting silent aspiration.
• NGT Removal Specialist: We are the primary clinic in the region that provides the clinical clearance required for doctors and hospitals to safely remove a feeding tube.

"Our mission is to provide Manila-level diagnostic accuracy with Vigan-level accessibility and compassion."

Transparent Pricing & Financial Planning

We believe that medical billing should never be a surprise. At TeraCare, we provide clear, upfront pricing for our core services:

1. Initial Specialist Consultation: A comprehensive review of the patient's medical history, current diet, and neurological status.
2. Instrumental FEES Assessment: The endoscopic procedure, including the high-definition video recording and a detailed diagnostic report with diet recommendations.
3. Dysphagia Rehabilitation Packages: Discounted bundles for patients requiring multiple sessions of Speech Therapy and VitalStim electrical stimulation.

HMO and Insurance: We provide all the necessary medical certificates, official receipts, and diagnostic reports required for you to file for reimbursement with your private health insurance or HMO providers.

How to Book Your Swallowing Assessment

We have streamlined our booking process to be as easy as possible for busy families.

1. Step 1: Contact our Coordinator. Message us on WhatsApp or Facebook. Our team will ask a few brief questions about the patient's condition (e.g., Are they post-stroke? Do they have an NGT?).
2. Step 2: Receive a Quote. We will provide you with the exact cost for the consultation and the FEES test based on your needs.
3. Step 3: Schedule. We offer flexible morning and afternoon slots at our Vigan clinic.
4. Step 4: The Visit. The assessment typically takes 45-60 minutes total. You will leave the clinic with a clear "Safe Eating Plan" and, if appropriate, a referral for therapy.

Northern Luzon Service Areas

Our clinic is conveniently located in Vigan City, making us accessible to:

• Ilocos Sur: Bantay, San Vicente, Caoayan, Santa, Narvacan, Candon City.
• Ilocos Norte: Badoc, Pinili, Batac, Laoag City.
• Abra: Bangued and surrounding municipalities.

For families traveling from further away, we offer "Single-Day Triage" where the consultation and the FEES diagnostic can be performed in a single visit to minimize travel stress for the patient.

Conclusion: Your Safety is Our Priority

Don't let the fear of cost or the confusion of logistics prevent you from getting the care your loved one needs. A swallow test is more than just a medical procedure; it is the first step toward reclaiming independence and safety.

At TeraCare Vigan, we are here to provide the answers you need and the elite care you deserve.