#pcp15 | Impact of ASEAN integration

Date: May 11, 2015
Topic: Impact of ASEAN integration
Speaker: Jose Y. Cueto Jr. MD, FPCS, FPSGS, MHPed
Name of writer: Kristela A. Chiu, MD-MBA
Hospital: The Medical City

What is the impact of the ASEAN integration to our country? Medical services,unlike
goods have 4 modes of supply and we use these points to expound on how we can apply
ASEAN integration. First, we have the cross border supply which mainly covers
diagnostic tests, histopathology tests, medical transcriptions, etc. abroad. We also
use distance learning mode for education. Second is the consumption abroad and this
talks about education, training programs, diagnostics, surgical procedures and even
minimally invasive procedures done out of the country. Thirdly, we have commercial
presence. We have foreign companies investing on our country and the issue would be
if we compete or cooperate? Should we set up joint ventures and cooperate with
undertakings? Last point us the movement of natural persons. This basically covers
employment of a medical practitioner in a foreign country. But this is only
applicable between countries with similar education, accreditation, certification
systems and professional certification.
So as part of the ASEAN countries, do we have the quantity and quality of
professionals relative to demand? Can we attract foreign countries? Major problems
identified are international standards, competency standards, and practice of the
subspecialty. The key is qualification and the end point is board certification not
just eligibility.
To end, we physicians can help in implementing the ASEAN integration by first,
practicing with integrity. Second, we should value patient safety. Third is self
regulation by passing the exams. Lastly, we need to level ip on education, training
and certification. Otherwise, we will be left behind by our fellow ASEAN countries.