Acknowledging warnings that the country could run out of health professionals, First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo launched on Thursday a program that might help ease the shortage by sending medical students to school and support doctors serving in remote communities.

The “Bagong Doktor Para sa Bayan (New Doctor for the Nation)” was launched by Arroyo in Malacañang with the man he acknowledged was the inspiration for the program, Senator Juan Flavier, and the Department of Health.

The launch of the First Gentleman’s project came a day before the birthday of Flavier who, long before entering public service, had already been known for his “Doctors to the Barrios” program. Organizers said it was also close to Arroyo’s 60th birthday on June 27.

Asked for his birthday wish, the First Gentleman said, "That we have more doctors in the barrios serving our countrymen."

Arroyo has set aside 20 million pesos from the FG Foundation to fund the program.

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo made a surprise appearance at the event and stayed for a few minutes.

The First Gentleman, who has been away from the limelight for the past few months, said he was glad he has not been dragged into any new political controversies, allowing him to concentrate on "charitable projects."

Mr. Arroyo’s name has been dragged into several controversies, including allegations of receiving huge kickbacks from illegal gambling.

He said he hoped his project could be a response to the continued exodus of nurses and doctors to greener pastures abroad.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque admitted the country is "in dire need" of health professionals and that the project could help fill the gap.

At the launching of the project, 22 scholars, 20 of them in their fourth year in medical school, were presented.

The scholars will study either at the University of the Philippines-College of Medicine or at the Pamantasan ng Lunsod ng Maynila and will enjoy free tuition, uniforms, medical bags with complete basic medical equipment, board and lodging, and board examination fees. When they start their internship, the First Gentleman said they will also receive allowances.

Duque said these scholars will be asked to serve two years in the Philippines for every year of their scholarship.

"We give you something, give something in return - serve your countrymen especially those in the underserved areas," the First Gentleman said in his speech.

To boost the morale of doctors serving in the barrios, Duque announced that around 80 of them will receive medical bags from the FG Foundation. The Foundation will also provide a short-course training package in any Asian country and Palm Pilots to five outstanding doctors in the barrios. He observed that doctors who work in the barrios stay for an average of five years. After this, they either go abroad or engage in private practice.
The First Gentleman will be in Spain with the President during his birthday.

Starting June 24, President Arroyo will be visiting Rome and Milan in Italy, and Spain. The First Family will also meet with Pope Benedict XVI in Vatican City.


Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer (Published on 06/22/06)