Several weeks ago, President Marcos Jr. appealed to health workers, most especially nurses and doctors, to stay in the country and serve our people and their growing healthcare needs. This plea is not entirely new. We've heard this several times from many politicians in the past. What is also not new are the conditions that push … Continue reading Protect nurses in non-traditional roles
Regulatory framework for task shifting in health-care system needed
The Philippines faces a challenge in its pursuit of universal health care, particularly in rural and geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, where access to essential services is impeded by the shortage and maldistribution of health-care professionals. The growing burden of chronic diseases, such as hypertension and diabetes, warrants the implementation of innovative solutions. It is … Continue reading Regulatory framework for task shifting in health-care system needed
Empower patients to make informed choices
In the Philippines, there are many factors contributing to patient choice. More often than not, patients cite accessibility, quality, and cost as primary factors in selecting a health-care provider. At the center of patient-centered care is the freedom for individuals to make informed choices regarding their health care. Historically, the right to choose has often … Continue reading Empower patients to make informed choices
Access to resources still a problem for researchers
In the past years, we have observed growing investments in health research. The importance of this has been further emphasized during the pandemic. Even then, there remains limited availability of research infrastructure and facilities that stand as a barrier to the production of quality research outputs. Moreover, researchers frequently find themselves competing for a handful … Continue reading Access to resources still a problem for researchers
Dealers should follow LTO’s registration policy
I laud the efforts of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) in ensuring that all motor vehicles on the road are insured, at par with the legal standards, and properly accounted for through mandatory registration. The “no official registration (OR), no certificate of registration (CR), and no plate, no travel” policies make it clear that all … Continue reading Dealers should follow LTO’s registration policy
Sad Plight of researchers amid budget misuse
The recent budget deliberations at the House of Representatives revealed information on the misuse of funds by some government offices. The Commission on Audit’s issuance of the notice of disallowance to the Office of the Vice President for the alleged misuse of P125 million in confidential funds left many of us deeply dismayed and concerned. … Continue reading Sad Plight of researchers amid budget misuse
Gov’t must address hidden costs of health care
With the advent of universal health care (UHC), there have been significant improvements in the health-care system of the Philippines. However, we must recognize the persistent difficulties in ensuring health equity, particularly in remote and underserved areas. These gaps in health-care access continue to disproportionately affect people living far from urban areas. It has been … Continue reading Gov’t must address hidden costs of health care
Health promotion, Thailand’s way
By: Katherine Ann V. Reyes, REINER LORENZO J. TAMAYO Universal Health Coverage (UHC) Day, observed annually on Dec. 12, serves as a global reminder to champion health for all. UHC aims to ensure that all individuals and communities receive the health services they need, whenever and wherever they are needed, without suffering financial hardship. While Republic Act … Continue reading Health promotion, Thailand’s way
Alcohol-free 2025
Filipinos typically welcome the new year singing karaoke songs while consuming their favorite alcohol drinks. It’s a custom that was passed down through many generations. While it is difficult to break such practices, we cannot discount the fact that alcohol consumption brings no lasting gains, rather, it brings short-lived fun and lingering pains. Scientific evidence … Continue reading Alcohol-free 2025
“Public service” beyond the walls of government
Recently, I had an interesting conversation about the unique fulfillment one gets in helping your own country by working in the government. While I understand where this sentiment is coming from, I have mixed feelings about it. I am working in the government, albeit as a consultant, and technically that does not count as "government … Continue reading “Public service” beyond the walls of government
Pens & Needles 