MAY 2016 AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF PHILIPPINE MEDICAL ASSOCIATION VOLUME XXV NO. 3

In this issue:

From the President's Desk 2-8

Editorial 9

As I See It 10

The Vice President's Corner 11

Money Matters: The National Treasurer's Report 12-13

The Philippine Medical Association headed by its President Dr. Maria Minerva P. Calimag, meeting with the Vantage Point 14-16 Department of Health Secretary Hon. Jannette Loreto-Garin, M.D. for the reinstatement of the PMA Certificate of Good Standing as a requirement for Philhealth Accreditation of Healthcare Practitioner. Also in attendance is the One PMA, One Love president of Philippine Hospital Association Dr. Ruben C. Flores. Sharing Love 16

PhilHealth reinstates PMA Certificate of Convention Updates 24-25

Good Standing Requirement From the desk of your Chair of the CME Commission 26 The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation has reinstated the updated Certificate

of Good Standing (CGS) from the Philippine Medical Association (PMA) a requirement for One PMA, One Online accreditation for all physicians effective January 8, 2016. This ruling is contained in the Community 27 PhilHealth Circular #2015-037 dated December 8, 2015. On the part of PMA, an updated CGS from the component society is required for securing the PMA CGS. Specialty Divisions & Specialty Societies News & Events 28-30 The CGS was removed as a requirement for accreditation in 2013 as stated in section

61 of the Revised Implementing Rules and Regulations of RA 7875 as amended by RA 9241 Unraveling the Exotica: and RA 10606. However, the PhilHealth recognized that membership in good standing in the The Zika Virus 31-32 PMA and in the Philippine Hospital Association (PHA), its two partners in the implementation of the National Health Insurance Program, would increase the likelihood of compliance of the Philhealth Circular on health care providers to the Code of Ethics of their respective organization. PMA Certificate of Good Standing 33-35

For medical specialist applying for accreditation (initial, continuous or re-accreditation due to lapse in accreditation), an updated CGS from their specialty society is required aside from the PMA CGS.

Physicians whose accreditation is still valid would be required to submit the necessary certificate(s) on their next application for accreditation.

•••

Page 2 The Physician

FROM THE PRESIDENT’S DESK Maria Minerva P. Calimag, MD, MsCE, PhD, FPSA

Leading at the PMA: A Legacy of Good Governance and Strategic Management

fostering an environment that encour- (3) from activity-based work to a results ages quantum leaps in the improve- orientation; (4) from scorekeeping to ment of critical, contemporary measures leading and teaching so that people of performance, such as cost, quality, measure their own results; (5) from service, and speed. The intent of en- functional (vertical) to process This year, TEAM PMA 2015-2016 gaging in process reengineering is to (horizontal or cross functional) orienta- chose to refocus our efforts on sustain- make the PMA significantly more flexi- tion; (6) from serial to concurrent op- able and tangible change at the PMA. ble, responsive, efficient, and effective erations; (7) from complex to simple,

for our physician-members, employees streamlined processes; (8) from empire Through the years, many things and other stakeholders. building and guarding the status quo to needed rethinking at the PMA. The phy- inventing new systems and processes sicians‟ psyche, our culture at the PMA As in all other organizations, if and looking toward the future (i.e., from (the Component, Specialty and Affiliate process reengineering is to work for the the caretaker mentality to visionary Societies, included), our business pro- PMA, our organizational priorities must leadership). As organizational priorities cesses (our daily workflow processes, change in the following ways: (1) from change, the culture will change as the our fund management processes), our boss to customer focus; (2) from con- members begin to understand the vi- employer-employee relationships, our trolled workers to empowered, involved sion for a better culture with better ca- buildings and grounds. process owners and decision makers; pabilities and results.

Members tend to have short-term memories and we easily forget. Often- Our Strategic Imperatives and The Balanced Scorecard times, changes at the PMA are as short- lived as the one or two-year term of the At the Leadership and Strategic Planning President. Many changes end up as Workshop, several strategic imperatives band-aid solutions. emerged:

1. Institutionalize the mission, vision In the last two years, our goal at and values of the PMA; the PMA has always been to institution- alize changes and make changes tangi- 2. Strengthen the PMA as an ble and palpable for our members‟ sat- organization; isfaction so that long-term solutions 3. Enhance the relevance of the PMA can happen. We all need to assume a among its members; growth mindset for sustainable change 4. Build capacities and empower the to take place. physicians;

The beginning of immediate, dra- 5. Promote quality Medical Education; matic change and the application of 6. Improve physicians' access to Con- supporting technical and behavioural tinuing Professional Development; concepts and tools that are necessary to 7. Play a pivotal role in crafting implement process reengineering at the policies and laws for the country; PMA requires answering the ultimate and question: "Why are we doing this at 8. Elevate the status of the PMA in all?" To accomplish this, the PMA Figure 1. Adapted from Robert S. Kaplan and the local and international scene. must throw out existing systems and David P. Norton, "Using the Balanced Scorecard processes and create new ones, thus as a Strategic Management System," Harvard fostering Business Review (January-February 1996):76 continued on page 3... Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 3

from the Presidents Desk, from page 2...

The Financial/Stewardship Perspective

“Financial Performance”

Timely and accurate funding data is always a priority at the PMA, and the Officers and Members of the Board of Governors will do whatever is necessary to provide it. In fact, often there is more than enough handling and processing of financial data. Year-to- date funds are increasing monthly.

With the implementation of a batteries are full are now in use which via the OWL@PMA after achieving the corporate database in the OWL@PMA, resulted in 60-80% savings in electrical required number of CPD points. Physi- the goal is that more of the information consumption. cian-members who lack the required and financial processing can be centra- CPD points may avail of CPD points lized and automated. Soon physician- The Business Process Perspective online through webinars, podcasts and members can pay Annual Dues online; online modules provided by CPD Part- avail of an automatic debit arrangement “Efficiency” ners such as MSD/Johns Hopkins Clinical, with participating banks and credit cards; UMED, Asia eHealth Information Net- and secure the Unified Certificate of Metrics based on our internal business work, MDPie, Johnson and Johnson, UP- Good Standing via the OWL@PMA after processes allow the Officers and Mem- Med, etc. achieving the required number of Con- bers of the Board of Governors to know tinuing Professional Development (CPD) how well our daily workflow processes We hired an Executive Director who points. are running, and whether our products is knowledgeable in human resource and and services conform to physician- process flow management. We also hired The current emphasis on financials, member requirements (the mission). a Certified Public Accountant who is however does not lead to an These metrics have been carefully de- knowledgeable in accounting processes, "unbalanced" situation with regard to signed by those who know these proc- and Internal, as well as, External Auditors. other perspectives. An audit system has esses most intimately; with our unique Almost immediately, the Internal Auditor also been adopted. Policies have been missions these are not something that was able to note irregularities in some of set in place to plug all financial leaks. All can be developed by outside consult- our internal processes that were immedi- transactions are made through credit ants. Soon physician-members‟ Continu- ately remedied. The Association has now cards and payments through cheques for ing Professional Development (CPD) set policies for all processes that involve greater transparency and accountability. activities can be automatically credited transactions within and outside the All suppliers of goods and services to their to their portfolio and the Socie- Association. undergo canvassing and bidding. LED ties‟ portfolio; physician-members who lights, air conditioners with inverters and paid their Annual Dues online can secure laptops that can be unplugged when the Unified Certificate of Good Standing continued on page 4... Page 4 The Physician

From the President’s Desk, from page 3...

The Customer/Stakeholder Perspective

“Satisfaction”

Recent management philosophy has shown an increasing realization of the importance of customer focus and customer satis- faction in any undertaking. Physician-members have renewed trust and confidence in the organization. 6,061 members have either reactivated and/or have newly applied for membership. The physician-members have likewise responded positively to the ONE PMA Movement and it has become a by-word among members. It has likewise improved the image and relevance of the PMA as an organization.

We launched the ONE PMA MOVEMENT to unite all doctors in the country, under the PMA, the umbrella organization of all medical organizations in the country.

The employees are likewise experiencing a second wind as a new Executive Director/Human Resource Manager instituted changes in the way the office is run. This is the first time in 112 years that the employees got Service/Loyalty Awards, thus recognizing their roles in the successes of the Association. One employee, Ms. Cathy Sal- cedo has been with the Associa- tion for 38 years since 1978. They now have HMO hospitali- zation benefits, salary restructur- ing and Employee Training and Development.

th First Employee Service Awards on PMA's 112 Year continued on page 5... Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 5

from the Presidents Desk, from page 4... We have also set-up the OWL@PMA as an online We have also launched the Cus- CPD Provider Platform and tomer Satisfaction Forms at the Doctors‟ an online CPD Monitoring Inn as an initiative to better address our site in line with the require- physician clients/guests needs. ments of the Philippines Qualification Framework The Learning and Growth and the ASEAN Qualifica- tions Framework through Perspective the Council of Medicine of

the Professional Regulation “Knowledge and Innovation” Commission. The

OWL@PMATM is an acronym This perspective includes employee that stands for Online training and corporate cultural attitudes Component Society Officers are given an introduction into Webbed Learning @ Part- related to both individual and corporate the OWL@PMA Program during the Regional Assemblies. nerships for Medical Ad- self-improvement. In a knowledge- vancement. It features a content and worker organization, people -- the only learning management site with analytics. repository of knowledge -- are the main TM The OWL@PMA is an investment in The OWL@PMA also features a cloud- resource. In the current climate of rapid Information capital. The capacity build- based portfolio assessment platform ing we are engaging in to empower our technological change, it is becoming which is a virtual space for curating and necessary for knowledge workers to be archiving of physician profile and evi- physician-members in digital literacy is in a continuous learning mode. The em- dences of learning from formal, informal an investment in human capital. ployees now undergo short course train- and non-formal Continuing Professional ings according to their office duties and Development (CPD) encounters. CPD To date we have disseminated infor- responsibilities. The retraining of our TM credits can be earned through the Online mation about the OWL@PMA to 15 employees is an investment in human Modules and Roundtable Conferences; out of 17 Regions across the country in a capital. Certificates from local and international continuing effort to build capacities: conferences, seminars and workshops; Western Mindanao (Pagadian City); Cen- research outputs, creative works and tral Visayas (Cebu); Eastern Visayas outputs such as infographics for health (Ormoc); Northwestern Luzon (La Union); awareness advocacies, policy statements, position papers, lectures delivered etc. Northcentral Mindanao Region (Lanao del Sur); Manila Region, Quezon City The portfolio within the Region, Rizal Region, Central Tagalog TM OWL@PMA will be both a product Region (Manila); Central Luzon Region and a process portfolio. A product port- (Bulacan); Southern Tagalog (Tagaytay); folio demonstrates mastery of a learning Northeastern Luzon (Ifugao); Western task or a set of learning objectives and Visayas Region (Aklan); and Southeast- contains the best works of the physician, ern Mindanao (General Santos City) and Conducting Webinars for the OWL@PMA while a process portfolio documents the stages of learning and provides a pro- CARAGA Region (Surigao City). Dr. Ferdi- gressive record of the physicians‟ profes- nand Miranda, President of the Misamis sional growth over time. All physicians Oriental Medical Society and volunteer shall simply curate or record all his con- web developer of the OWL@PMATM tinuing professional development activi- gives the orientation during the Regional ties (face-to-face and online) to be cred- Assemblies. ited with the corresponding CPD units. The portfolio will provide the evaluator Over and above this, we are invest- with the following information, i.e., 1) a ing capital outlay for the improvement of reflection of the physician as a profes- the PMA grounds and facilities. The last sional; 2) a record of his professional improvement in of the physical facilities development; 3) proof of his perform- A PMA Component Society is assigned ance on-the-job, in-training or in class; was 25 years ago in 1991. one webinar seat at the Asia eHealth 4) what he has accomplished (i.e., tangi- Information Network (AeHIN) Platform. ble artifacts/evidence); 5) paper-, com- Members attend as a groups but are puter -, or web-based evidence of having assigned points individually. learned new skills. continued on page 6... Page 6 The Physician

From the President’s Desk, from page 5...

The PMA Auditorium after the Renovation

The PMA Auditorium

It will be remembered that the PMA renovation of the restrooms and coats of under the technical supervision of Engr. -PARM Rehabilitation Center and the paints donated by Boysen Philippines Joylie Agustin (APMA). Indigency Center was renovated in part- which significantly reduced the overall nership with the Philippine Academy of cost of the improvements. The improve- Some may view office renovation Rehabilitation Center under the leader- ments was initiated through the efforts work as a dreadful chore, some may find ship of its President Dr. Renald Peter of the PMA Auditorium Committee it a financial burden. But the plain fact is Ramiro, and was inaugurated during last headed by Dr. Sylvanno Agustin that, for office operations to grow, con- year‟s Foundation Day Celebration, Sep- (Chairman), and Members: Drs. Lilia stant office renovation is essential and tember 15, 2015. The PMA Auditorium Matulac, Evangeline Fabian, Nenita Lee- Tan, Sylvia Calingo and Carmencita Lo has also been renovated including continued on page 7... Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 7

from the Presidents Desk, from page 6... so worn out that it emits a clanging Our furniture are outdated and daily sound whenever shoe heels meet the use has resulted in typical wear and tear. often necessary to maintain such growth. nosing. Indeed, even the best and most Fabrics are stained and the leatherette Rather than treating it as a burden, office expensive flooring would disintegrate upholstery are ripped so that even a renovation work should be viewed as a over certain periods. When the renova- simple reupholstering of the fabric or sign of things to come. For the PMA, the tion works on the flooring is done, the mending of the furniture can come a current style and layout is obsolete and new tiling will ensure a fresher and live- long way in making a noticeable impact. the office renovation is intended to turn lier atmosphere. the Administration Office into a space The PMA grounds has also been with more efficient workflow. Our walls and doors are painted weather-beaten and battered in the last different colors of brown, gray and white 25 years and it too will get a facelift in- Physician-members come and trans- with no harmony whatsoever. A fresh cluding landscaping. Loads of trash that act business at the PMA daily and the spray of monochromatic tones of beige are hidden from sight at the back of the floor of the offices and the stairs going with a splash of lime green paint on the Indigency Center and the PMA Audito- up to the second floor which has been walls will play a huge part to liven up the rium will be disposed of and the area covered with vinyl tiles represents the workplace and lift up the ambience of cemented and landscaped. most used commodity of the entire Ad- the office. A change of colour is essential ministration Building, so naturally it suf- to follow changes in colour trends. fers to most wear and tear. No amount Adorning the walls with art and décor of soaping and washing can clean the can also make a huge impact on overall floors and the stairs. Even the stairs are ambience.

Flooring of the 2nd Floor Administration Building Flooring of the 2nd Floor Administration Building… Before After Work In Progress

The PMA Grounds…Before

continued on page 8... Page 8 The Physician

From the President’s Desk, from page 7...

The PMA Grounds…Work In Progress

The Doctor‟s Inn will also have a change of mattresses, pillows and bed covers. The improvements and renovation was through the efforts of Doctors‟ Inn Committee headed by Dr. Francisco San Diego.

Renovation of the Doctors’ Inn

rests on the shoulders of the PMA Presi- towards a common direction, and creat- dent, the National Officers and the Board ing goodwill amongst all physicians of Governors. All institutions, govern- while keeping in mind the delivery of ment and private, rely on the PMA and excellent healthcare to the Filipino Na- its position on many issues that affect tion. Good governance has 8 major char- the Filipino physicians. Leadership at the acteristics. It is participatory, consensus- PMA is not just about taking a seat at oriented, accountable, transparent, re- the top, it is about pushing the PMA sponsive, effective and efficient, equita- upwards to greater heights. ble and inclusive, and follows the rule of The PMA-UNILAB Doctors‟ Lounge law. Good governance is responsive to will also be renovated in partnership with “We are One PMA: Empowering the the present and future needs of the or- UNILAB through Vice-President Mr. Filipino Physician For Nation Building”, ganization, exercises prudence in policy- Ramoncito Sta. Maria and Edgardo Ka- our tagline, speaks of how the Philippine setting and decision-making, and makes napi of PRMD and it will be renamed the Medical Association, in all of its 112 sure that the best interests of all stake- PMA-UNILAB Continuing Medical Educa- years of existence has always been at the holders are taken into account. Together, tion (CME) Center. forefront of establishing a sense of the PMA Team of 2015-2016, vow to do honor and dignity among its members, just that. Throughout my two-year term, I of fostering a sense of belonging to a realized the magnitude of the work that brotherhood of physicians, of moving ••• Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 9

clearances of a resigning employee have been drafted. All these have al- ready undergone board approval. Moreover, compliance with all permits and all taxes have been done. Proper accounting procedures are already in place to ensure proper check and bal- The PMA: Our Place in ance in recording of income and dis- bursements, with a CPA at the helm of the Sun the accounting department. To properly manage the Doctors Inn, we have hired a Front Desk Officer to address all prob- The Philippine Medial Association Each member will make their own port- lems in the Inn, since the use of the Inn has finally reached its destination. folio, and all their CME or CPD activities is considered a benefit of PMA mem- should be recorded into their database. bers. Lastly, an Executive Director serv- In the first and second editorial, we Eventually, the program will include the ing as office manager and a Human likened the PMA to the geese, which participation of government regulatory Resource Manager is permanently in heads South every Winter- tens of thou- bodies, like the PRC in reviewing the place to further professionalize the PMA sands of them, traveling thousands of CME and CPD activities. Other programs secretariat and other employees. miles, in search of its nesting grounds to be included are the payment of both and more food resources during the local and national dues on line, atten- PHIC has implemented the issuance Fall. dance in our annual conventions, as of a Certificate of Good Standing from well as voting on-line in national and the PMA as a prerequisite for Last year, the PMA charted its path local elections. accreditation. For specialists, another for the South with various programs in certificate of good standing from the mind to ensure a better environment In the meantime, we are also put- specialty societies is also required. for its flock. We now note that we are ting our house in order- both physically finally settled in our place under the sun and structurally. Just like the geese, which are now in the South as there have been tre- in their nesting grounds- resting and mendous strides and gains that our One The physical development of the gaining strength, the PMA is regaining PMA Movement has made possible, as PMA Building and premises is almost its long lost flourish. Its newfound follows: close to completion. The Doctors Inn, strength is that of a unified Philippine the Auditorium, Indigency Center, Medical Association, with the renewed The OWL@PMA program, which Administration Building, and PMA trust and confidence bestowed upon us was launched by PMA President, Dr. grounds have been refurbished. A by government agencies, by NGO's, by Minerva P. Calimag during the 108th drivers lounge good for 6 people has private groups and of course by our PMA Annual Convention at Marriott been added to the Doctors Inn. pride and glory-- our flock of members. Hotel is now in place. Initially conceived The high sense of professionalism pre- as an on-line web learning program, it For the first time, service awards vailing is indeed heartening. is now an integrated platform that were given to employees who have serves as the website of each and every served the PMA 10 years and above. Indeed, the Philippine Medical As- component society specialty division, Each was given cash prizes and a watch. sociation has found its place under the specialty society and affiliate society. Insurance coverage of the employees sun! Significant events and activities of each have been increased. An HMO to cover association, under the PMA may be each employee has also been given. ••• uploaded into their individual websites. Guidelines for retirement and for

EDITORIAL BOARD The Physician Editor-in-Chief PMA Journal Marianne L. Ordoñez-Dobles, M.D. Arnel A. Asiño, M.D. The Physician is an internal publication of the Philippine Maria Christina H. Ventura, M.D. Medical Association instituted by the PMA Board of Assistant Editor-in-Chief Governors for the dissemination of information to PMA Albert C. Guevarra, M.D. Contributing Editors Members. Its office is at the PMA Secretariat, North Sol Veronica E. Bagaipo, M.D. Avenue, Quezon City 1105; contact numbers: 9296366; The Physician Erlinda G. De Los Reyes, M.D. 9262447, 09189234732, 09178221357; fax number: Arnel A. Asiño, M.D. Eliza D. Laurente, M.D. 9296951; Arthur T. Catli, M.D. PMA Governors Email: Albert C. Guevarra, M.D. Component Society Presidents Ma. Corazon S. Maglaya, M.D. [email protected], Specialty Division Presidents [email protected] Mechael Angelo G. Marasigan, M.D. Specialty Society Presidents Bayani P. Tecson, M.D. Affiliate Society Presidents website: www.philippinemedicalassociation.org Page 10 The Physician

Disability benefits, if totally or perma- Early this year, the traditional PMA- nently disabled while in service, maybe APPA dialogue and fellowship was done claimed after the disability is established at the PMA Boardroom and PMA Audi- by a PMA appointed physician. torium. The theme of this year's event was "One PMA One APPA United in One ••• The Philippine Medical Association Vision". has submitted its version of the Physi- The use of the Doctors Inn has al- cians' Act and we are hopeful that this ••• ways been only for PMA members in would be adapted by both the Upper good standing and has always been House and Lower House of Congress. Initiated by Dr. Francisco San Diego, considered as a benefit to members Dr. Minerva P. Calimag has been per- chair of the Doctors' Inn, the lanai of the because of the low room rates and the sonally attending the hearings with the Inn has been renovated and plants security that it offers. We have a front Commission on Legislation of the PMA. adorn the garden. These plants were desk officer in the Inn who will ensure donated by Dr. San Diego. us that those who use the Inn are PMA

••• members are in good standing. A survey ••• of past guests shows that 66 % of occu- The Balik PMA program ended on pants are not doctors, and if doctors, December 31, 2016. Of the 40,000 inac- Service Awards were given to 10 are not PMA members. Some are liaison tive members, only 2461 members have PMA employees who have served the officers of physicians, distant relatives, availed of the program. This program or hospital staff. The rules shall be PMA for a period of 10 years and above. ran for 1 1/2 years under the presi- strictly enforced. Cash prizes and a watch were given to dency of Dr. Ma. Minerva P. Calimag. each employee. Other benefits added ••• were an increase of the insurance cover- ••• age, and an HMO to cover each em- Security in the PMA grounds has ployee of the PMA. The OWL@PMA an Online been tightened, and only those with Webbed Learning launched during the business with PMA, tenants, and mem- ••• th 108 PMA Annual Convention would bers, doctors' inn guests, or officers enable PMA members to earn CPD/ attending meetings shall be allowed to A Memorandum of Cooperation CME units. Not all physicians can attend park in the PMA premises. It is unfortu- has been signed between the PMA rep- symposia, conventions, or round table nate that the parking ground has been resented by our president, Dr. Minerva discussions due to lack of time, conflict used by shoppers of the nearby malls, P. Calimag, and the Philippine National of schedules or distance of travel, as in medical students who parked their cars Red Cross represented by the Honor- the provinces. Webinars, modules of and take the MRT to attend their classes able Richard Gordon at the PNRC Build- MD pie, UMED, and modules of John to medical schools, doctors who are not ing last January, 2016. Hopkins by MSD, can be accessed PMA members but have business else- through our website. where, etc. •••

••• ••• Last February 24, 2016, we had a

post Valentine concert, a fund raising The Code of Ethics of the PMA will There is now a drivers lounge at the event for the benefit of our PMA Indi- be revisited to make it attune to the Doctors' Inn for drivers of the Inn's gency Center at the Music Museum present times. All stakeholders and the guests. This is to avoid the use of the entitled "One PMA, One Heart, Sharing Professional Regulations Commission sofa and others chairs at the lobby by Love", starring Stephanie Reese and will be invited to craft a new Code of the drivers while the doctors are John Vera Perez. This event was chaired Ethics for the Medical Profession. checked in at the Inn. This lounge is provided with 3 double decked beds for by Dr. Vincent Santos, PMA governor at least 6 persons and one toilet and ••• for Central Tagalog. bath room. There will be minimal A PMA Staff Retirement Plan is in charges for its use. ••• place and board approved. This is inclu- sive of death and disability benefits. •••

Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 11

Although recently, lens extraction with or without IOL implantation may be an option to correct refractive errors (refractive lens extraction), this is not compensable by PHIC. Such procedure is only compensable if there is cataract, but not for error of refraction. Unfortunately, cataract surgeries

were in the spotlight of controversies One time, I was informed that one last year. The Philippine Health Insur- of the more serious blunders in cataract ance Corporation (PHIC) complained of surgery was that the procedure actually huge insurance claims from cataract performed was excision of pterygium. surgeries alone. Reports on sweeping However when it was reported for Phil- CATARACT SURGERIES: operations, deliberate misdiagnosis and health claims, it was reported as cata- OVER USED OR ABUSED? reporting of wrong procedures were ract surgery. cited. Sweeping operations are when

persons with blurring of vision in a cer- In the golden days, one would wait Philhealth has taken several meas- for a cataract to be mature, or with vis- tain locality are recruited and gathered ures to prevent fraudulent claims: from ual acuity (VA) of less than 20/200, for for cataract surgeries regardless of what limiting the number of monthly surger- him to be operated on. And in those the real diagnosis is. As long as they ies to requiring pre-approval assess- times, intracapsular cataract extraction have blurred vision and have PHIC cov- ment to strict usage of FDA approved was the standard procedure wherein erage, they are convinced to undergo IOLs. But can these measures really pre- the entire cloudy lens was removed – such surgery. As an ophthalmologist in vent such claims? the lens capsule and nucleus. And post- my province I have seen patients who were scheduled to have cataract surgery operatively, one needed very thick by another surgeon. Yet the blurring of With the new law making all senior lenses to be able to see clearly. Other- vision was not because of cataract but citizens qualified for Philhealth insur- wise, the patient could hardly see a because of other maladies like optic ance, we should expect that there thing. atrophy or plain error of refraction. In would be a surge of cataract surgeries.

my own opinion, these sweeping opera- With baby boomers of post war era With the advent of the artificial tions may be justified as long as these getting now on this particular age intraocular lenses (IOL), one need not patients really have mature cataracts in group, we can again expect more sur- wait for a very poor vision for him to need of surgery. In this kind of scheme, geries. undergo the surgery. VA of around transportation is usually provided by 20/70 to 20/200 could now be operated the doctor or his cohorts for the pa- It is so shameful that doctors com- on. After removing the anterior capsule, tients in going to the hospital. In many mit such kind of low dubious schemes. cortical materials and lens nucleus in far flung places, transportation is hard I admit, it is a multi-million business but the procedure known as the extracapsu- to avail of that many people end up this is so morally wrong. Doctors are lar cataract extraction, the IOL sup- having hypermature cataracts. So no there to give what is best for our pa- ported by the retained posterior cap- matter what you call it, this scheme can tients. Monetary compensation, al- sule would be placed in the original help people for it is every person„s right though necessary, must always be sec- position of the extracted cataractous to be able to see. And one should not ondary. After all, we have been given lens. Thus post-operatively, the patient be denied this right because Philhealth this God‟s gift to heal and it is up to us could now see clearly even without the people don‟t honor sweeping opera- use of eyeglasses. In the recent times to use it wisely and conscientiously. tions. when cataract surgery procedures are ••• greatly improved, new technologies are Deliberate misdiagnosis. I had a introduced and more refined IOLs are long time patient who was a high available in the market, patients may myope. One day to my surprise, she In Memoriam opt for surgery early on. As long as the went to my office for a post cataract patient complains of difficulty in doing surgery check up. She didn‟t have any his routine chores even with relatively cataract yet when she underwent the Antonio C. Oposa, M.D. good VA, phacoemulsification cataract surgery. The main indication for the PMA President extraction is a suitable option. Such is surgery was her high myopia. As far as I the nobility of cataract surgery – to en- know, error of refraction has never been 1975-1976 able one achieve the gift of sight. an indication for such procedure. Page 12 The Physician

COMPARATIVE FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

As of January 31, 2016, the total fund balance of the association is P132,260,346.32. This is remarkably higher than the same month of the previous fiscal year. There is an increase of more than 7 million or 5.6% from the previous fiscal year. The associa- tion‟s fund is composed of the savings/current accounts and the money market placements or temporary investments placed in various large banks in the Philippines.

A substantial portion of the total fund is allocated for the Physicians‟ Mutual Aid and the Physician‟s Trust Fund accounting for 58% and 14% of the total fund balance respectively. The Physicians‟ Mutual Aid Fund and the Physicians‟ Trust Fund are funds intended for the mutual aid benefits claims (death benefits, disability benefits and legal aid benefits).

As shown in the graph, the financial performance of the association has improved as compared to similar months of the previous fiscal year.

For the general fund, the gross revenue increased by almost 9 mil- lion while the expenses had no significant changes.

This gave the association a net income of 8 million more than in the previous fiscal year.

For the doctors‟ inn on the other hand, the gross revenue and ex- penses had no significant change. The net income of current fiscal year, however, is higher than the same months of the previous fiscal year by almost 500,000.00.

As to the indigency clinic, there is no substantial increase in the gross revenue while the expenses increased by 33% as compared to the same months of the previous fiscal year. Hence, the net income was noted to be lower than the same months of the previous fiscal year. The increase in the indigency clinic‟s expenses is due mainly to the improve- ments introduced to improve the facility of the clinic and thereby im- prove the services as a whole. continued on page 13... Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 13 National Treasurer’s Report, from page 12...

MUTUAL AID BENEFITS

For the period June 2015 to January 2016, almost 4 million was released for the death benefits of the members of the asso- ciation; while more than 2 million was released for the disability benefits and 88,000.00 for the legal aid benefits. As of January 31, 2016, more than 6 million had already been released to members for their mutual aid benefits.

•••

Meeting with DILG USec for Local Government Atty. Austere A. PMA Sec-Gen Dr. Marianne O. Dobles and Asst. Sec-Gen Panadero regarding the lifting of the Mayor’s Permit being Dr. Albert C. Guevarra with PRC Board of Medicine member charged against doctors. Done last Feb. 18, 2016 Hon. Eleanor J. Galvez, M.D. during the PRBs and APOs Night Link- Up Party held last March 9, 2016 at PRC Building, Manila

Dr. Maria Minerva P. Calimag inviting the participants on the Signing of the MOA between PMA and PSBank for the availment Webinar about TB during the Commemoration of the World TB of the Automatic Debit facility for payment of PMA and Day done last March 29, 2016 held at UNILAB Bayanihan Center Component dues. Done last April 6, 2016 Page 14 The Physician

of dues and assessments as pro- vided for in this By-Laws. These members shall be exempt from the requirements of the Continuing Medical Education and the obliga- tion to vote for the duration of their residence abroad. They cannot be voted upon or be appointed to any The Vital Amendments to the position in the PMA during the du- ration of their residence abroad. Constitution and By-Laws of the PMA Article II: Obligations and Rights Section 1. Obligations My task for this issue of our PMA BY-LAWS A member of the PMA, to be con- Newsletter: “The Physician”, is to high- sidered in good standing, shall be light the important amendments to the Article I: Members obliged to: Section 2. Section 2. There shall be four Constitution and By-Laws of the PMA for categories of members. the information of the general member- a. Pay all national and local dues as ship. well as all special assessments that a. Regular Members are those who may be determined by the Board. It is important for PMA members to pay the annual membership and other dues of the PMA. know these vital amendments so that b. Vote in the elections of the PMA at least once in two years, unless the each member can confidently ratify b. Life members are members who opt failure to vote is of justifiable reason these amendments through their respec- to pay the life membership dues as stipulated in the Election Code. tive Official General Assembly delegates after ten (10) consecutive years of this coming May, 2016. regular membership in good stand- c. Comply with the requirements of ing immediately preceding the ap- the Commission on Continuing The vital amendments are the following: plication for life membership. Quali- Medical Education; fied regular members may choose to become Life Members upon fa- d. Comply with such other obligations CONSTITUTION vorable recommendation of the as may be imposed by the Board component society and subject to and that of the local component Article Six: Board of Governors the approval of the Board. medical society Section 4. The terms of office of the c. Emeritus Members are those who, President, Vice President and National Article IV: National Officers for at least fifteen (15) consecutive Treasurer shall be for two (2) years, with- Section 4. Terms of Office years immediately preceding the out re-election or until their successors The terms of office of the President, application for Emeritus member- shall have been duly elected and quali- Vice President and National Treas- ship, have been regular or life mem- fied. The terms of office of the Governors urer shall be for two (2) years, without bers in good standing and who, re-election for the same position, or until shall be for One (1) year from June 1 to having reached the age of 65, have their successors shall have been duly May 31 of the following year or until been judged to have been worthy elected and qualified. The terms of office their successors shall have been duly and meritorious members of the elected and qualified. PMA as recommended by their re- of the Governors shall be for one (1) spective component societies and year from June 1 to May 31 of the fol- Article Eleven: Amendments and confirmed by a resolution of the lowing year or until their successors shall Effectivity Board. Emeritus members shall not have been duly elected and qualified. A Amendments to this Constitution shall be required to pay the annual mem- governor shall serve no more than two be approved by two-thirds [2/3] of the bership dues of the PMA and the consecutive terms unless no other quali- Board and ratified by a majority vote of Component Societies. fied candidate is available. The term of office of the Secretary-General shall be the general membership through the d. Non-Resident Members are Filipino at the pleasure of the President with the general assembly or of the Constituent physicians licensed to practice approval of the Board or shall be co- Assembly, and shall be effective upon medicine in the Philippines and re- terminus with the President who made approval of the same by the securities siding in foreign countries. They the appointment. and exchange commission. shall be eligible for membership in the PMA through a component soci- ety upon application and payment continued on page 15... Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 15

Vantage Point, from page 14... Article VI: General Assembly by the PMA as separate specialty divi- Section 7. Subject to the conditions of sions, if so qualified as stipulated in the Section 10. Removal from Office the Corporation Code of the Philippines, Code of Professional Specialization, and The National Officers may be re- the functions of the General Assembly approved by the Board. moved from office upon the following shall be: causes: a. The qualification and recognition of a. To review and ratify amendments to specialty division, specialty society, a. Dereliction of functions and duties the Constitution and By-Laws of the and subspecialty society under the of his/her position PMA as approved by a two-thirds PMA shall be subject to the provi- [2/3] vote of the Board and ratified b. Failure to attend three [3] consecu- sions of the By-laws, Administrative by a majority vote of the General tive meetings of the Board in a Codes, the Code of Professional Membership of the PMA. year, without justifiable cause. Specialization and sub-specialization b. To review and ratify the proposed rules and regulations. c. Malversation of funds of the PMA annual budget as recommended by and other graft and corrupt acts. b. The specialty divisions, specialty the Board societies, and subspecialty societies d. Violations of the By-laws and Codes c. To review the acts and resolutions shall be listed in the Code of Pro- of the PMA. of the Board pertaining to their ad- fessional Specialization. e. Inimical acts committed against the ministrative and non-administrative c. The Constitution and By-laws, poli- PMA as determined by the Board. functions. cies, rules, and regulations of the d. To review and ratify the acts and specialty divisions, specialty socie- Section 11. All elected National Officers resolutions of the Board of Gover- ties and subspecialty societies shall may be removed from office upon a two nors pertaining to the Approval of not be in conflict with the Constitu- -thirds [2/3] vote of the Board and rati- the new component societies, spe- tion and By-laws and Administrative fied by two-thirds [2/3] vote of the Gen- cialty divisions, specialty societies, Codes of the PMA. In case of con- eral Assembly, either in a regular or spe- affiliate societies/associations, and flict, that of the PMA shall always cial meeting specifically called for the removal of the same in the roster of prevail. purpose. The procedure of investigation the PMA. by the Board shall be outlined in the e. To approve the date and venue of Section 9. Affiliate Societies under the Administrative Code. the Annual Convention. The Board PMA shall be subject to the rules of the of Governors shall decide the date Committee on Affiliate Societies. The Secretary-General may be removed and venue of the Annual Conven- by the president for any cause, with the tion in the event the General As- Article XIII: Amendments, Effectivity, and approval of the board. sembly fails to do so. Repealing Clause Section 1. This By-Laws may be In the event that the Professional f. To act as the representative body of amended or repealed through the fol- Regulation Commission or a court of the PMA and vote on all matters in lowing procedures: justice renders a final decision revoking which the Corporation Code of the the license of a national officer to prac- Philippines requires the votes or a. By a two-thirds [2/3] vote of the tice medicine, such national officer is written assent of the general mem- Board of Governors, and; deemed to be automatically removed bership of the PMA. from office. In such case, the Board shall b. By ratification by the General As- fill up the vacancy, except for the posi- Article X: Components, Regions, sembly with at least sixty [60] days tion of the President, whereby the Vice Regional Councils, Specialty Divisions prior notice of convening the Gene- President shall automatically occupy the and Specialties ral Assembly. The By-Laws may be position of President. Section 8. Medical societies organized ratified as follows: on the basis of professional specializa- 1. By a majority vote of the dele- Section 12. For causes listed in Section tion shall be formed within the PMA. gates present there being a quorum, 10, when a written and notarized com- These societies shall be organized into provided the delegates are holding the plaint has been duly filed and while be- specialty divisions. There shall only be majority proxy votes of the General ing investigated, the Board may preven- one(1) recognized specialty society to membership of the PMA. For purposes tively suspend a national officer upon a be formed per specialty or subspecialty. of ratification of the By-Laws, each dele- two-thirds [2/3] vote. The preventive The current specialty divisions and the gate is entitled to one vote plus the suspension shall not exceed 90 days. A specialty societies within these specialty proxies he carries designating him as suspended national officer shall not ex- divisions shall remain as recognized spe- proxy; ercise his powers nor avail of privileges cialty divisions and specialty societies. attendant to the position during the The specialty societies within these spe- duration of the suspension. cialty divisions may apply for recognition continued on page 16... Page 16 The Physician

Vantage Point, from page 15...

2. Upon approval by a majority One PMA. One Heart. Sharing Love vote, the General Assembly may consti- tute itself into a Constituent Assembly. by Vincent C. Santos, M.D. In which case, ratification of the amend- PMA Governor, Central Tagalog Region ments to the By-Laws may be by major- ity vote of those present in the Constitu- ent Assembly, there being a quorum. Last February 24, 2016 a fundraising concert for the benefit of the PMA Section 2. All amendments approved by Indigency Center was held at the Music Museum. This was titled One PMA the Board and ratified by the General One Heart Sharing Love featuring International Artist Stephanie Reese with Membership through the General As- guest artist John Vera Perez. The Board of Governors and the Executive sembly or Constituent Assembly shall officers of PMA envisioned this project not only as a fundraising event but become effective upon approval of same also as a post Valentine fellowship. by the Securities and Exchange Commis- sion. It was indeed an evening of Love and Sharing. Stephanie Reese and John Meer Vera Perez, wowed the audience with their spectacular singing and Section 3. Upon effectivity of these stage prowess. The repertoire were songs that evolved around "first love… amendments to the By-Laws, all existing first crush.... nostalgic love.... naughty love… love of family and love of provisions in the By-Laws or any of the country ". Codes of the PMA that are inconsistent with these amendments and the Corpo- ration Code of the Philippines shall be The audience was mesmerized, teary-eyed and with goose bumps. They deemed repealed. were very alive and participative, often singing along to familiar songs and showed their appreciation by giving the performers several standing Section 4. These amendments to the ovations. By-Laws shall take effect prospectively upon the approval of the Securities and It was an enchanted, unforgettable and enjoyable evening especially to Exchange Commission. those who came with their partners and love ones.

These vital amendments have to be rati- Congratulations to all who in one way or another gave their support to fied by the General Membership this worthwhile event. Let us continue our teamwork and live up to the through their official General Assembly Delegates carrying their weighted proxy tenets of our battlecry, ONE PMA. votes. We need 2/3 vote of the General Membership to finally come up with an updated Constitution and By-Laws of the PMA.

God bless us all and Mabuhay ang One PMA!!!

•••

Leadership is the wise use of power. Power is the capacity to translate intention into reality and

sustain it International Artist Stephanie Reese with guest artist John Vera Perez - Warren Bennis during One PMA One Heart Sharing Love fundraising concert for the benefit of the PMA Indigency Center held at Music Museum Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 17 PMA and PRC Cooperation Agreement Signing at the PRC Headquarters, EDSA, Mandaluyong City December 13, 2015

The Philippine Medical Association President Dr. Maria Minerva P. Calimag and its Board of Governors, and the Philippine Red Cross Chairman and CEO Hon. Richard J. Gordon during the signing of the Cooperation Agreement of their commitment and partnership in responding during times of calamities and disasters. Done at the PRC Headquarters, EDSA Mandaluyong City last December 13, 2015

The PMA Secretary General Dr. Marianne L. Ordoñez-Dobles and The PMA Pres. Dr. Maria Minerva P. Calimag, Sec-Gen Dr. Asst. Secretary General Dr. Albert C. Guevarra meeting with the Marianne L. Ordoñez-Dobles and Asst. Sec-Gen Dr. Albert C. PHIC President and CEO Atty. Alexander Padilla re PMA Cert of Guevarra meeting with the Professional Regulation Commission Good Standing as requirement for Philhealth Accreditation. In the Board of Medicine headed by its Chairman Hon. Miguel L. Noche picture also are the PHA Pres Dr. Ruben Flores and DOH Usec Elmer Jr., M.D. Punzalan. Page 18 The Physician PMA CHRISTMAS PARTY “One PMA, One Christmas Spirit” at the PMA Auditorium December 13, 2015

Yuletide message by the PMA President The PMA Board of Governors rendering the Doxology Dr. Maria Minerva P. Calimag “O Holy Night”

The Master of Ceremonies (Left to Right) Dr. Vincent C. Santos, Queen of the Night Dr. Ma. Realiza G. Henson, Former PMA Gov, PMA Gov Central Tagalog Region, Dr. Paul Ruel C. Camiña, Quezon City Region and King of the Night Dr. Vincent C. Santos, PMA Gov Central Luzon Region and Dr. Ramon C. Echano Jr., PMA Gov, Central Tagalog Region. PMA Gov. Bicol Region

KALYE SHARE YEAH Launch at the Annabelle‟s Restaurant, Tomas Morato, Quezon City January 26, 2016 Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 19 PMA-APPA Dinner and Fellowship at the PMA Auditorium January 27, 2016

Dialogue between PMA Officers and APPA Officers and Welcome message by the PMA President Dr. Maria Minerva P. Members Calimag during the PMA-APPA Fellowship Night

The PMA Board of Governors headed by its President Dr. Maria The APPA Officers headed by its President Elect Dr. Hedy Minerva P. Calimag Windsor 25th Dr. Jose P. Rizal Memorial Awards Fellowship Dinner with the Board of Judges and Reunion of Winners at the PMA Auditorium January 27, 2016

Former winners of the Dr. Jose P. Rizal Memorial Awards PMA National Officers headed byDr. Maria Minerva P. Calimag, the Board of Judges of the 25th Dr. Jose P. Rizal Memorial Awards and the former winners of the Dr. JPRMA Page 20 The Physician ONE PMA, ONE HEART, SHARING LOVE (A Post Valentine Concert) at the Music Museum, Greenhills, San Juan City February 24, 2016

The concert featured artist Ms. Stephanie Reese Ms. Stephanie Reese with Mr. John Vera Perez doing a rendition of the song from the Phantom of the Opera “All I Ask of You”

The Chairman of the concert PMA Governor for Central A bouquet of flowers presented to Ms. Stephanie Reese by Tagalog region Dr. Vincent C. Santos doing a number with Drs. Maria Minerva P. Calimag, Vincent C. Santos and Ms. Stephanie Reese Marie Michelle S. Cloa PMA-CME and Regional Assemblies 2015-2016 North Central Mindanao Region January 10, 2016 Amai Pakpak Medical Center, Marawi, Lanao del Sur

PMA Board of Governors Host Society: Lanao del Sur Medical Society headed by its President Dr. Moamar Casim Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 21

Manila, Quezon City, Central Tagalog and Rizal Region January 24, 2016 Bayanihan Center, United Laboratories Inc., Pasig City

Business meeting with the PMA National Officers and NCR Host Region: Rizal Region headed by its PMA Governor Governors with the Presidents of Component Societies of NCR Dr. Jose C. Rabe

Central Luzon Region January 31, 2016 Barcie International Hotel, Malolos City, Bulacan

Business meeting facilitated by the PMA President Dr. Maria Host Society: Bulacan Medical Society headed by its President Minerva P. Calimag and PMA Governor for Central Luzon Dr. Dave Rawland S. Domingo Dr. Paul Ruel C. Camiña

Southern Tagalog Region February 7, 2016 Summit Ridge Hotel, Tagaytay City

Former Governors of the Southern Tagalog Region The PMA Board of Governors Page 22 The Physician

Northeastern Luzon Region February 21, 2016 Banaue Hotel, Ifugao

With the Presidents of the Component Societies of the Host Society: Ifugao Medical Society headed by its President Northeastern Luzon region Dr. Kenneth Wilbour B. Labador

Western Visayas Region February 28, 2016 Roz and Angeliques Function Hall, Kalibo, Aklan

With the Former Governors of the Western Visayas Region Host Society: Aklan Medical Society headed by its President Dr. Lynn D. Salido

Southeastern Mindanao Region March 6, 2016 Green Leaf Hotel, General Santos City

The PMA Board of Governors Host Society: General Santos City Medical Society headed by its President Dr. Anthony Laurence P. Escovidal Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 23

Caraga Region April 3, 2016 Gateway Hotel, Surigao City

Agusan del Sur Medical Society headed by its President Dr. Host Society: Surigao del Norte Medical Society headed by its Henry O. Tiu II President Dr. Manolito C. Go

WORKSHOP ON THE CODE OF ETHICS FOR THE MEDICAL PROFESSION at the Breeze Hall, Ace Hotel, Mandaluyong City March 19, 2016

Welcome Message by the PMA President Dr. Maria Miverva P. Professional Regulation Commission Board of Medicine Calimag who served also as the facilitator of the workshop Chairman Hon. Miguel L. Noche Jr., M.D.

PMA Commission on Ethics Chairman Dr. Santiago A. del Rosario Page 24 The Physician

be tackled. Moreover, the Scientific Committee would also like to draw your attention to a cost-effective way of treat- One PMA…. Hi there colleagues! ing your patients illnesses. Lastly, be- Mark the dates May 17-20, 2016! Water- cause of renewed interest in legal mat- front Cebu City Hotel. ters, speakers will keep you abreast of what PMA does and can do for you. The Yours truly was tasked by the inde- complete list of topics is as follows: fatigable PMA Secretary-General, Dr. Marianne O. Dobles to give you an up- Session 1 - “Fat but Fit” th date on the forthcoming 109 PMA An- Focal Point: Adiposity and Adisopathy nual Convention and Scientific Meetings. Yes! The Organizing Committee both Session 2 - “My Kind of Addiction” National & host Society which is the Focal Point: Dependency

Cebu Medical Society are going full blast Session 3 - “Oldies but Goodies” in their preparation, what with barely Focal Point: Old Drugs still in current use three months to go! This year‟s theme and still first line in certain medical carries with it last year‟s One Health… conditions. One Life… One Nation. Session 4 - “Forever Young” Ebony & The Scientific Committee headed by Ivory, Medical vs Surgical. Dr. Rebecca Deduyo and Dr. Marlon Co Focal Point: Aesthetics and Cosmetics.

formulated the theme for Scientific Ses- Session 5 - “Legally Helping Hand” sions as Caring… Mending… Sharing Cost of Handling the Case, Duration, which is truly reflective of what PMA is. PMA’s Action and Assistance to Members. The National Organizing Committee meets every month for updates and to Session 6 - “Rich Doc, Poor Doc” thresh out problems that arise along the way. The Scientific Committee in particu- Discussions on all of the topics will lar spends hours and hours in choosing, be an interaction of different specialties reviewing, discussing and revising topics and speakers who are all experts in their that will be relevant to your profession fields. Not to be missed are the PMA as well as interesting enough so that Awards where deserving component every centavo spent in coming and stay- societies will be given recognition in ing here will be worth it. I assure you different categories and degree of in- from the very first day up to the last volvement in the PMA‟s advocacies and topic that will be discussed will keep you the Jose Rizal Memorial Awards & Lec- plastered to your seats. By the end of the ture will be another highlight of the Con- Convention you will definitely say “It‟s all vention. worth it. No regrets!” Do you know that OBESITY is inside and out? That children So why don‟t you book your flights and old alike are and can be affected? early for the trek is leading to Waterfront How about ADDICTION? Mind you, Cebu City Hotel on May 17-20, 2016. Drugs and Alcohol addiction are but two of the different kinds of addiction. There See you there! are also the cyber addiction, sex addic- tion, shopping addiction among others. This is your National Overall Chair of When do you say that you are an addict the Organizing for the 109th PMA Con- in any of these? Find out on the second vention and Scientific Meetings signing day of the convention. And of course off. how we maintain our Beautiful Skin & keep our faces always glowing will also ••• Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 25

amongst colleagues and conform to ASEAN integration as well as global Greetings! Prospective delegates to standards for medical care. Asides from the 109th PMA Annual Convention and having a comprehensive and encom- Scientific Meetings! It has been a long passing scientific program, this conven- time since Cebu last hosted the PMA tion will also present the annual Jose P. Annual Convention way back in 1992 at Rizal Memorial Lecture and Awards, and the Cebu Plaza Hotel which has been a throwback-to-the-roaring-20‟s fellow- replaced by the Marco Polo Cebu Hotel. ship night entitled “A Night with the Dubbed as the “Queen City of the South” Great Gatsby!” in deference to the Cebu and the seat of Christianity in the Philip- Medical Society‟s 88th anniversary. pines, Cebu is home of the country‟s first

national hero, Lapu-Lapu. Thus we have incorporated his image in our promo- The Scientific Committee, headed tional materials to symbolize courage by renowned Cebuano cardiologist Dr. and strength along with the two famous Marlon Co, has prepared a multidiscipli- Mactan-Cebu bridges to edify progress nary series of interactive lectures geared and unity. In behalf of the Cebu Medical towards the physicians who are very Society as host society and the local or- much instrumental in taking care of ganizing committee, I invite all PMA patients from birth till death and all the members to attend and participate in the intervening diseases in between. To convention activities. From the design of spice up the discussions we have invited the scientific topics to the planning an impressive line-up of experienced of the convention program, we assure speakers and distinguished moderators you that this will be worth your time and from different fields. Interesting non- this will be an affair to remember. medical but relevant topics have also been added. Through these scientific The Organizing Committee meticu- meetings, we hope to further promote lously chose the Waterfront Cebu City excellence in the delivery of health care Hotel since it is the only highly-rated in the ever-changing fields of medicine hotel in Metro Cebu that can seat more as well as motivate interests among our than 2,000 delegates during the plenary colleagues and future generations in sessions. Moreover it is strategically lo- fostering unity and camaraderie while cated in the center of the bustling me- engendering new initiatives in improv- tropolis with proximity to shopping malls ing clinical standards in patient care and famous tourist destinations for a across the nation. variety of R & R to choose from. Conven- th tion delegates therefore will not be Again in behalf of the 109 PMA bored before and after the scientific ses- Annual Convention Organizing Commit- sions! tee, I take pleasure in inviting you all to this year‟s convention offering in Cebu. In consonance with the “One PMA, Diverse in history and culture with a One Health, One Nation” aspirations of multitude of landmarks to visit, Cebu the PMA, our theme is “Caring, Mending beckons loud and proud! Anhi na mo sa and Sharing” which alludes to the pre- Cebu! ventive, therapeutic and collaborative practices that current Filipino physicians ••• must adopt to maximize nationwide healthcare delivery, improve cooperation Page 26 The Physician

Besides the medical condition the last day of the convention will focus on topics which will arose the interest of our medical practitioners. Three speak- ers will talk on the topic of investment for doctors. The other session will be handled by Dr. Santiago del Rosario, The Theme of the convention is Past PMA President and now the Chair still PMA-One Nation, One Health. The The 109th PMA Annual Convention of the PMA Commission of Ethics. He Scientific Session Theme is “Caring and Scientific Meeting is fast ap- will focus his discussion on how PMA Mending and Sharing”. The panel dis- proaching. It will be held at Waterfront can extend a legally helping hand to cussion will deal with the following Hotel in Cebu City hosted by the Cebu Doctors who will meet some legal topics: Medical Society with the Presidency of problems in the performance of their Dr. Danny Yu, who will be the over all 1. Not all fat individuals are metab- function as practitioners. Dr. Angeles organizing committee of the Annual olically unhealthy. Tan-Alona, Dr. Antonio Rebosa and Dr. Convention in Cebu, the counterpart of Peter Ng will be his panelists in this 2. Not all thin people are metaboli- Dr. Realiza Henzon the over all orga- discussion. I am very sure that all par- cally healthy nizing committee chair of the Philip- ticipants will enjoy attending the panel pine Medical Association. I will be the 3. How one can convert from one to discussions and there will be active the other through lifestyle modifi- Scientific chair and my counterpart in participation of all attendees. In this cation and medication. Cebu is Dr. Marlon Co. I would like to particular convention guidelines on take this opportunity to express my 4. Different types of addiction and Dyslipedemia will be presented by the gratitude to the participation and co- their effect on the individuals: Philippine Heart Association thru a operation of the following accredited a. Drug and alcohol addiction luncheon symposium hosted by LRI/ and affiliate societies of the Philippine Therapharma, a division of UNILAB. b. Cyber addiction Medical Association namely the Philip- pine College of Physicians, Philippine c. Sex addiction I hope that each participants will learn many updates that will be pre- College of Surgeons, Philippine Ob- d. Shopping addiction stetrical and Gynecologic Society, Phil- sented on this convention. ippine Pediatric Society, Philippine e. Gambling addiction See you in Cebu! Society of Adolescent Medical Special- 5. Old drugs are still in current use

ist, Philippine College of Occupational and still first line medical condi- ••• Medicine, Philippine College of Addic- tions. Discussions will include in tion Medicine, Philippine Psychiatric the following drugs: Association, Philippine Society of Mi- a. Aspirin VS clopidogrel crobiology and Infectious Diseases, Philippine Society of Nephrology, Phil- b. Digitatis VS beta blocker ippine Society of Endocrinology, Dia- c. HRT and MHT If your actions betes and Metabolism, Philippine Heart Association, Philippine Society of d. Metformin and new oral inspire others to Experimental and Clinical Pharmacol- hypoglycemic agents dream more, learn ogy, Philippine Dermatologist Society, e. Allopurinol and Febuxostat Philippine Society of Cosmetic Surgery, more, do more, and Philippine Association of Plastic and f. Morphine and new forms pain become more, you Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons, medication Philippine Society of Otolaryngology, are a leader 6. Discussion will focus also in the Head & Neck Society, PAO, PAO- topic of “Forever young” using - John Quincy Philippine Society of Opthalmic Plastic medical and surgical intervention. Adams and Reconstructive Surgery and Philip- Safety issues will be the focus pine Society of Rehabilitation Medi- point of discussions especially on cine. the surgical interventions.

Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 27

and archives of teaching materials, Jour- nals, Researches, Publications and One PMA, One Online Community medical society's reports. By Ferdinand D. Miranda, M.D. These sites are and will be the ma- jor sources of PMA updates and health informations and a powerful tool in This website would serve several pur- reaching members and officers of each poses: component society. This is also a poten-

Information Technology is now part tial strategies for PMA organization to 1. It would house a password pro- of our daily life. More than 85% of engage to engage collaborative innova- tected relevant informations for Filipinos use IT for online shopping, tion processes and recognized the im- PMA members, which include indi- banking and connecting friends and portant role of inter-society collabora- vidual biography, portfolio, finan- relatives on social media. This can also tion in creating unique learning oppor- cial reports, awards and accom- be use for organizations' information tunities for Filipino doctors. plishments. dissemination and reporting. 2. Storing of members updated finan- The ubiquitous interconnectivity Because of ASEAN integration cial account ledger with online pay- among all PMA organizations and the there is need for a means to provide ments capability. participative architectural design of this virtual and remote opportunities for virtual environment open the way of acquiring CPD credits, a means to 3. Information bulletin of society's cooperative innovation to the member's document CPD earned and a means to calendar of activity, CME activity, sector. conventions, news and updates and assess authentic tasks from formal, memorandum circulars from the informal, and non-formal trainings. Although some members were PMA national office. initially resistant to change into paper- less system, but little by little they Dr. Ma. Minerva P. Calimag, the 4. Links to vetted external websites, started to appreciate the innovative PMA president and a known advocate taking advantage of the wealth of efforts and now many members are for technology integration on medical learning materials that is available actively updating their own online ac- education and training, conceptualized on the www which is difficult for count and even excited for the full im- and initiated the Online Webbed the inexperienced to navigate. plementation of the program. The con- Learning @ Partnership for Medical struction and the success of this project Advancements Program (OWL@PMATM 5. Exclusive messaging for doctors has meant that the general member- program) for continuing professional only, which open up the avenues of communication between members ships and our PMA President Dr. Ma. development of physicians. The intent is and officers of different medical Minerva Calimag has put substantial to provide an alternative platform for societies. resources into the further development deploying learning materials via online of OWL@PMATM PROGRAM. mode. This will feature a cloud-based It is an online open collaboration portfolio assessment platform which will platform to gather all PMA members be a virtual space for curating and ••• data and highlights archiving of physicians profile and the transforma- evidence of learnings. tional efforts in order to leverage To show our support, the Misamis members Online Oriental Medical Society Inc., a compo- Webbed Learnings. nent society of PMA made a decision to voluntarily construct a virtual learning I n s h o r t , environment for doctors and a portfolio OWLPMA.COM based platform websites of all organi- website which has zations under PMA using the presi- interconnectivity to dent's report as a guide. Collaboration websites of all PMA and interconnectivity of a mother organizations, owlpma.com website to different medi- serves as a "HOME" cal society websites plays an essential for online learning, role in information dissemination, moni- CPD assessment The 1st OWL@PMA Workshop held at the PMA Auditorium last toring of society activity, acquiring, ar- and Monitoring, April 6, 2016 attended by societies from NCR, Central Luzon and chiving and monitoring CPD earned. Doctors directory Southern Tagalog Region Page 28 The Physician

News and Events 2nd Quarter, Fiscal Year 2015 – 2016

by Arnel M. Asino, MD, FPBA, FPSQua

Philippine Society of infectious diarrhea, influenza and pertus- different specialties, mainly Obstetrics Anesthesiologist sis, as well as emerging infections like and Gynecology and other specialties HIV and the Zika virus, were discussed. like Dermatology, Endocrinology, Psy- The Philippine Society of Anesthe- Due to the rising number of HIV-AIDS chiatry, Cardiology, Internal Medicine, siologists will be holding its midyear cases in the country, Dr. Marimel R. Pag- Geriatric, Orthopedic & Family Medicine. convention hosted by the Cebu Central catipunan urged paediatricians to be We are also one of the affiliate societies Visayas Chapter with the theme, “A- vigilant about referring at-risk patients under the Philippine Obstetrics and nesthesilogists N-ovel and C- for screening, emphasising the need to Gynecological Society and currently we onventional H-andling of O-perating identify newborns born to HIV-positive have 357 active members. mothers. room S-cenarios AWEIGH. This will be

on April16-18 at Radisson Blu Hotel, This year we are coming up with Endemic infections were another Cebu City. For Inquiries you may call up different activities which aim to promote focus of the convention. Dr. Vicente Y. the PSA Seceratriat: Landline (02) awareness and treat our menopausal Belizario, the Undersecretary of the De- 9295852, Mobile 09209522120/ women: 14th Midyear Convention partment of Health, emphasized the im- 09178329069 or email at (Date: May 26, 2016, Venue: Marco Polo, portance of deworming programs as [email protected] Ortigas), 24th Annual Convention (Date: parasitic infections are still widespread. September 12-13, 2016, Venue: to be ••• Childhood tuberculosis updates such as announced), CME Caravans for the the 6-month isoniazid preventive ther- doctors & lay (schedules to be an- Pediatric Infectious Disease apy regimen, the four-drug intensive phase and the latest diagnostic such as nounced), World menopause month Society of the Philippines the Gene X-pert were presented by Drs. celebration (every October). Josefina C. Carlos, Dr. Ma. Cecilia G. Ama The Pediatric Infectious Disease So- and Dr. Cleotilde H. How, Dr. Fe We would also like to encourage ciety of the Philippines (PIDSP), headed Esperanza Caridad J. Espino presented other specialties to participate on our by its President, Dr. Salvacion R. the latest data and management of upcoming activities. Gatchalian and with Dr. Mary Ann Bunyi childhood malaria. as the Over-all Chair of the Organizing ••• rd Committee, held its 23 Annual Con- One of the most-awaited topics for vention last February 17-18, 2016 at every PIDSP convention is the release Philippine College of the Crowne Plaza Galleria Manila. It of the latest childhood immunisation Emergency Medicine was an outstanding success, attended by guidelines. This year, the Dengue vac- more than 2500 paediatricians from cine, was highlighted as the latest inclu- across the country. The two-day event sion in the recommended vaccines by Dr. The Chairman of the Annual Con- aimed to equip paediatricians with the Cynthia A. Aguirre. vention Dr. Amado Flores, III and presi- necessary tools to face emerging and re- dent Dr. Carlos Vicente G. Gabriel would st emerging infections in the 21 century. The Society is currently planning its like to invite you in forthcoming Philip- next Convention, in the hopes of contin- pine College of Emergency Medicine This year‟s guest foreign speaker, ued success. (PCEM) 2016 Annual Convention enti- Professor David Isaacs from the Univer- tled “EMPOWER: EM ” on April sity of Sydney, shared his experience on PHYSICIANS ••• 25-26 to be held at the Crowne Plaza neonatal infections such as congenital Galleria Manila, Ortigas Avenue. varicella and CMV, to help general Philippine Society of paediatricians quickly recognise such This convention will focus on disease entities. Climacteric Medicine, Inc. Empowerment of Emergency Medicine Updates on the diagnosis and The Philippine Society of Climacteric Practitioners in delivering quality management of common childhood Medicine, Inc. is an organization that is infections such as UTI, enteric fever, composed of Physicians coming from continued on page 29... Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 29

Specialty Divisions & Specialty Societies Philippine College of co-morbid conditions of the patient), News and Events, from page 28... Wellness Program for Lay in coopera- Geriatric Medicine tion with Abbott, Insulin Programs for emergency medical care. This year‟s the patients in cooperation with specific theme will highlight the role of Emer- The Philippine College of Geriatric pharmaceutical companies. PSEDM like- gency Medicine in promoting health Medicine (PCGM) is now enjoying recog- wise advocated Endocrine Hyperten- awareness through advancement in nition from two Specialty Divisions of the sion Awareness in collaboration with medical technology and services as well Philippine Medical Association. The first the Philippines Society of Hyperten- as updates on relevant health concerns was in 2011, by the Philippine College of sion and PSEM Move for A Cause, affecting the country at this time. Physicians. On February 17, 2016 the which advocates physical activity to pre- Philippine Academy of Family Physicians vent obesity and diabetes. The PSEDM Aside from plenary lectures, (PAFP) granted the second recognition also hosts the Thyroid Cancer Summit PCEM will offer workshops, which in- to open a career track for family physi- which brings together patients afflicted cludes BLS and ACLS recertification. cians keen interest in Geriatric Medicine. th with thyroid cancer to educate them the details of lectures and workshops This was awarded during the 55 Anni- about their condition. This, in turn, led to will be released soon. For more versary and Annual Convention of the the formation of the Philippine Thyroid information, please regularly visit our PAFP. website http://www.pcemph.org/ or Cancer Survivors Support Group. With visit us on facebook http:// ••• passion and dedication, the PSDEM will www.facebook.com/philcollege.em/info prove to be relentless in pursuing its or email us at [email protected]. Philippine Society of mission and vision this year. Endocrinology, Diabetes ••• ••• and Metabolism, Inc.

Philippine Society of The good book says, “To whom Philippine Dermatological Newborn Medicine much is given, much is expected in re- Society turn”. Our country has suffered much The Philippine Society of Newborn deconstruction that every one of us now PDS as the „DermAuthority‟, de- Medicine (PSNbM), headed by JOSE B. is being called into nation-building. We, scribes a PDS dermatologist - a properly SALAZAR,MD, President 2015-17, an physicians, ought to heed this call and trained and competent physician who is organization of board-certified neona- be in its frontline in the field of health- the true expert on skin, hair and nails. tologists, strives to establish and pro- care. Apathy is a disease and we need to mote care of the highest standard for all cure this. We need to go beyond the With PDS president Dr. Daisy King newborn, on their 10th Anniversary four corners of our hospitals and clinics. Ismael, at the lead, the different PDS Celebration held the FIRST PSNbM We need to advocate and actively par- Institutions, Regional Chapters, Commit- PROVINCIAL POSTGRADUATE during ticipate. tees and Subspecialty Core Groups their 10th Post Graduate Course last hosted CME and research activities, post FEBRUARY 6-7, 2016 with the theme, Through our group, the Philippine graduate courses and workshops to fur- “NEWBORN EMERGENCIES 24/7, at Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes and ther enhance knowledge and hone clini- the VIGAN CONVENTION CENTER, Metabolism, concerted efforts geared cal and surgical skills in dermatol- ILOCOS SUR. This was in collaboration towards upholding public health and ogy. PDS hosted yet another interna- with the Philippine Pediatrics Society wellness, raising medical awareness, and tional Dermatology convention, the 13th Inc., NORTHERN LUZON CHAPTER. empowering fellow physicians have been Asia Pacific Environmental and Occu- The 2 day course focused on the patho- done and instituted. To name a few, the pational Dermatology Symposium physiology, therapeutic intervention and PSEDM spearhead “Hawak Kamay La- (APEODS), last November 4-6, 2015 at evidence based principles that are essen- ban Sa Diabetes: Train the Trainors the EDSA Shangri-La Hotel, with the tial to understanding the critically ill in- Workshop” which was participated in by theme, Focus: SKIN (Skin Knowledge fant. The Organizing Committee, was baranggay health workers, baranggay headed by JOSIE NIU KHO,MD, Over- nutrition scholars and midwives. Inthis and Innovations Amongst Nations) all Chair and AURORA ALICIA D. MA- program, participants learn about the with a total of 1030 participants, includ- TIAS, MD, Co-chair, invited renowned basics of diabetes, from symptom recog- ing some ASEAN dermatologists. There speakers and prepared well balanced nition, to diagnosis and simple manage- were 50 local and international speakers, relevant topics, including including ment and follow-up. Moreover, our soci- all experts in the field of contact derma- workshops, that are practical and appli- ety conducted several programs namely; titis, environmental and occupational cable for the care of the sick neonate. Fit For You Program (which costumizes dermatology. the level of recommended physical ••• activity depending on the age and continued on page 30... Page 30 The Physician

Specialty Divisions & Specialty Societies PIDSP Holds the latest childhood immunisation News and Events, from page 29... 23rd Annual Convention guidelines. This year, the Dengue vac-

cine, was highlighted as the latest inclu- PDS Vice President and chair of the The Pediatric Infectious Disease So- sion in the recommended vaccines by Dr. accreditation committee Dr. Angela ciety of the Philippines (PIDSP), headed Cynthia A. Aguirre. Lavadia together with the Department by its President, Dr. Salvacion R. Chairs and Training Officers of the 11 Gatchalian and with Dr. Mary Ann Bunyi The Society is currently planning its different PDS institutions spent 2 years as the Over-all Chair of the Organizing next Convention, in the hopes of contin- carefully reviewing and updating the Committee, held its 23rd annual Conven- ued success. Dermatology Training Program residency tion last February 17-18, 2016 at the curriculum. New modules will be tackled Crowne Plaza Galleria Manila. It was an ••• during monthly CMEs . "Beauty is Power" outstanding success, attended by more serves as this years‟ awareness cam- than 2500 paediatricians from across the paign for PDS, which emphasizes that country. The two-day event aimed to PDS dermatologists are experts not only equip paediatricians with the necessary in skin hair and nail disease but are at tools to face emerging and re-emerging the forefront of aesthetic medicine as infections in the 21st century. well. Our Code of Ethics

This year‟s guest foreign speaker, ••• states: Professor David Isaacs from the Univer- Philippine Society of sity of Sydney, shared his experience on neonatal infections such as congenital Climacteric Medicine, Inc. varicella and CMV, to help general pae- “Colleagues, legitimate diatricians quickly recognise such dis- The Philippine Society of Climacteric ease entities. children who are Medicine, Inc. is an organization that is composed of Physicians coming from Updates on the diagnosis and man- minors, or even those different specialties, mainly Obstetrics agement of common childhood infec- and Gynecology and other specialties tions such as UTI, enteric fever, infec- who are not minors like Dermatology, Endocrinology, Psy- tious diarrhea, influenza and pertussis, as chiatry, Cardiology, Internal Medicine, well as emerging infections like HIV and but mentally Geriatric, Orthopedic & Family Medicine. the Zika virus, were discussed. Due to the We are also one of the affiliate societies rising number of HIV-AIDS cases in the incapacitated and under the Philippine Obstetrics and Gy- country, Dr. Marimel R. Pagcatipunan necological Society and currently we urged paediatricians to be vigilant about dependent upon our have 357 active members. referring at-risk patients for screening, emphasising the need to identify new- colleague for support, This year we are coming up with borns born to HIV-positive mothers. different activities which aim to promote should be given awareness and treat our menopausal Endemic infections were another women (please refer on the list below): focus of the convention. Dr. Vicente Y. the courtesy.  14th Midyear Convention Belizario, the Undersecretary of the De- Date: May 26, 2016 partment of Health, emphasized the im- However, this shall not Venue: Marco Polo, Ortigas portance of deworming programs as parasitic infections are still widespread. th apply to plastic or ● 24 Annual Convention Childhood tuberculosis updates such as Date: September 12-13, 2016 the 6-month isoniazid preventive ther- Venue: to be announced apy regimen, the four-drug intensive cosmetic procedures

● CME Caravans for the doctors & lay phase and the latest diagnostic such as unless the cosmetic (schedules to be announced) the Gene X-pert were presented by Drs. Josefina C. Carlos, Dr. Ma. Cecilia G. Ama ● World menopause month and Dr. Cleotilde H. How . Dr. Fe service is for celebration (every October) Esperanza Caridad J. Espino presented Reconstructive” We would also like to encourage the latest data and management of other specialties to participate on our childhood malaria. upcoming activities. One of the most-awaited topics for ••• every PIDSP convention is the release of Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 31 As with similar viral illnesses, treat- ment consists of supportive measures Unravelling the Exotica: (rest,fluids, analgesics & antipyretics). Dengue should be carefully ruled out The ZIKA Virus before giving aspirin and NSAIDs, as hemorrhage maybe aggravated. People By Mechael Angelo G. Marasigan , MD infected with any of the triad of Zika, Chikungunya & Dengue should be pro- tected from further mosquito exposure The medical world is again on its unsuspecting pregnant woman transmits during the first few days of illness to feet with the re-emergence of a virus the virus perinatally in utero and has prevent other mosquitos from becoming that was first discovered in Uganda in given rise to the possible association infected and thereby reduce risk of local 1947 in a forest of the same name, with microcephaly. Microcephaly is an transmission. manifesting with a mild illness. Six abnormal smallness of the head, a con- Prevention is central as no vaccines decades after, South America takes genital condition associated with incom- are available. The Philippine experience centerstage with about 4,000 Zika (ZEE plete brain development. There is still in addressing Dengue in the community -ka) suspected infections in Brazil since evolving knowledge on the link between can be applied in prevention as vector October 2015, 270 of which are con- Zika and the increased propensity for control is the key. The Centers for Dis- firmed, an increase from only 147 cases microcephaly and other congenital neu- ease Control & Prevention (CDC) has in 2014. Twenty four countries have rological abnormalities. Sexual transmis- issued special precautions to only 2 tar- confirmed cases in the Americas, and sion is still a consideration as Zika virus gets: (a) for pregnant women, at any 14 of these nations are considered for has been identified among asympto- trimester - postpone travel to areas travel precautions. In May 2015, the matic blood donors in areas of outbreak. where Zika virus has ongoing transmis- Pan American Health Organization GBS is a rare disorder where a person's sion, but if she must, carefully discuss (PAHO) confirmed that the Zika out- own immune system damages nerve with her physician to strictly follow pre- break in Brazil led to Guillain Barre cells, causing muscle weakness and cautions, and (b) women trying to be- Syndrome (GBS), as well as pregnant sometimes paralysis for weeks to several coming pregnant - consult her physician women giving birth to babies with birth months. While most will recover, some about plans before travel and discuss defects and poor pregnancy outcomes. suffer from permanent damage, and may rarely cause death. risk of Zika infection. Prior to 2015, cases were identified in

Africa (Cape Verde), Southeast Asia, Diagnostics are also evolving as the As reiterated by Dr Laura Kramer and the Pacific Islands. differentials include Dengue, Leptospiro- (School of Public Health in State Univer-

sis, Malaria, Rickettsia, group A Strepto- sity of New York @ Albany), wearing The Zika virus is a single stranded coccus, Rubella, Measles, parvirus, en- insect repellant is key. EPA registered RNA virus belonging to the Flaviviridae terovirus, adenovirus and the alphavirus ingredient DEET (N,N-diethyl-m- family. Its known vector is the "tiger infections (Chikungunya, Mayaro, Ross toluamide, active component of OFF mosquito" Aedes aegypti, a known River, Barmah Forest, O'nyong-nyong, lotion and Repel) or picaridin are recom- daytime and indoor biter which has Sindbis viruses). The triad of Dengue, mended. These are safe to pregnant continued to plague Asia because of Chikungunya and Zika should women and kids , but should be use with Dengue and the very debilitating Chi- be considered as all these are carries by caution to avoid eye and mouth contact. kungunya disease. The incubation pe- the Aedes, but "Zika is the most terrify- If with concommitant use with sunblock riod is usually 3-7 days, after which one ing of all because of the horrific birth during travel to tropical countries, the develops mild infection in 80% of cases defects" (Dr Peter Jay Hortez, National insect repellant should be applied after (fever, rash, headache, sore throat, red School of Tropical Medicine, Baylor Col- the sunblock. Agencies warn about use eyes in days to weeks). Severe disease lege of Medicine). Preliminary diagnosis of pesticides when it poses human is uncommon. is based on the clinical features, and health risk and when it contributes to places and dates of travel and activities. ecological damage. Zika virus is transmitted to humans Laboratory diagnosis is detection of RT- primarily through the bite of an in- PCR (reverse transcriptase polymerase Is the Zika virus on its way to the fected Aedes mosquito. Non-human chain reaction) in the serum early in the Philippines ? and human primates are the main res- first week, or detection of virus-specific ervoir of anthroponotic (human to IgM and neutralizing antibodies by the "Zika will go everywhere the mos- vector to human) transmissions that end of first week. Contrary to its com- quito is" ( Dr Marcos Espinal, Director of occur during outbreaks. Understanding parison to Malaria, Zika virus does not Communicable Diseases & Health Analy- of this transmission is crucial in stay in the body after recovery. Diagnos- sis, WHO). The first reported case of Zika preventing the relentless spread in the tic tests are not commercially available community. The virus is then transmit- and should be referred to specialized ted by the mosquito's saliva. The diagnostic centers. continued on page 32... Page 32 The Physician

Zika Virus, from page 31... "musquitero") is practiced in the coun- tryside when ventilation is not ideal is in the country was in 2012 when a 15 also suggested. Seeking early consulta- year old boy from Cebu City exhibited tion when fever is more than 2 days, fever, headache, conjunctivitis, sore especially among pregnant women is throat, loss of appetite, nausea & vomit- crucial for this vulnerable group. Fogging “Leaders aren’t ing. Luckily, he recovered fully after 3 should be a conglomerate decision and weeks. Two phenomena will definitely action by the community leaders when born, they are affect the re-emergence of Zika in the an outbreak is imminent. The good prac- archipelago and elsewhere in the world : tices of our communities in combatting 1. Global warming and 2. Travel and mi- Dengue should be replicated and exem- made. And they gration. The North Americas maybe plifies that the partnership of the baran- spared from Zika with the snowy climate, gay and health sectors goes a long way made just like any- but consider it only as a break and when to provide the solution. the temperature rises, cases may be thing else, through added to 3 confirmed infections in Flor- As reminded by Dr Janette Loreto- ida and Texas, both with history of travel Garin, our DOH Sectetary, "Cleanliness… hard work. And to Venezuela and Colombia respectively. the first step to prevent mosquito-borne Since 2007, 26 American travelers have diseases is within our homes. It is not that’s the price we’ll been diagnosed with Zika viral infec- only your family that will benefit from this habit, but the entire community as tions. have to pay to well". The World Health Organiza- tion (WHO) has convened an emergency The 2016 Olympics in Rio de Ja- achieve that goal, or committee meeting and its chair Dr neiro, Brazil , the epicenter of the Zika Margaret Chan has cited the Zika infec- virus outbreak, is just a breath away and any goal” tion "is spreading explosively in America the medical world should take Olympian and may rise to 4 million cases this strides to prevent a pandemic. Inspired - Vince Lombardi year". The WHO declares a surge in seri- by a Miss Universe in our midsts, we ous birth defects in South America is should advocate prevention at its best, 'strongly suspected' of being caused by as a healthy body is tantamount to a Zika virus and constitutes an interna- healthy mind which make heroes and tional health emergency (Rappler). WHO champions among us. Health education is facing international pressure to curb is a time-tested formula that should pre- the rise as there is still stinging criticism pare and arm us for any emergency and over the initially slow tackling of the outbreak, be it exotic as the Zika virus. Ebola that has ravaged Western Africa.

The Department of Health (DOH) in its press conference February 2, 2016, emphasized the 4S (Search and Destroy, Self Protection, Seek Early Consultation & Say Yes to Fog- ging ). As Aedes thrives on stagnant and domestic water, emptying breeding trays of potted plants, garbage can lids, bird- bath, and the like should be done every 5-7 days. The 3 o'clock habit advocated in schools should be reminded to em- phasize cleanliness as a preventive tool. "Tapat ko, Linis ko", a slogan in the rural areas should be applied in the depressed and urban poor communities. The use of long sleeves and pants, when the climate permits, act as barriers to the bite, espe- cially when travel is important. The use of mosquito nets ("kulambo", Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 33 Page 34 The Physician Volume XXV, No. 3 Page 35 Make Us One

Children below Our hear ts rejoice Fresh from the fold If Thy voice Hands beneath the moonlight Make us a rainbow Lord, please make us one Lord, please make us one

We hear the tide Light in the sky Roar through the night Forever high Come lead the weary Unite the rainbow Lord, please make us one Lord, Please make us one

Children rejoice Make us a rainbow Come to the voice Lord, please make us one Song of the angels Healing the broken ones

Seasons array Music and Lyrics by: There goes the one Cindy Morgan Lead to the fountain Wash and make us one