Philippine Hospital Association celebrates its 70th year
THE PHILIPPINE Hospital Association (PHA) is celebrating its 70th year with its annual national convention and exhibits at the Manila Hotel on Nov. 20 - 23. This year’s theme, “Mapping the Universe of Healthcare,” is in support of the Universal Health Care Law (UHC). President Rodrigo Duterte signed the law last March, while Health Secretary Francisco Duque signed the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) last October.
“This year, the UHC is a game-changer. We saw to it that the issue will be addressed substantially (in the convention),” says PHA Chairman Edmundo Lopez.
“Since we are celebrating our Platinum Anniversary, we have given this year’s convention the platinum attention it deserves... In the program, in the menus, in the layout and in so many other things that will have the participants feel their contribution to the event and fire them up for the centennial celebration.”
The PHA will bring together medical professionals, medical suppliers, and other members in the healthcare industry of the country and around the world. “It’s (an) opportunity for people — (professionals) and hospital administrators — to converge (in) one place, learn the new trends, meet one another, learn from each other, and do networking,” says PHA VP for Luzon Dr. Ma. Lourdes Otayza.
“We have a good line-up of resource speakers all dwelling about various topics: technology, government policies, environment, and medical practices, among other things. We are proud to say that in this year’s conference, we have the honor of having as keynote speaker the incoming president of the International Hospital Federation Dr. Risto Mittummien,” she adds.
Over the years, attendance at the annual national convention (ANC) has grown with attendees gaining deeper perspectives of the industry, learning about issues affecting it and how to respond to these. Additionally, the PHA has been actively participating in the series of nationwide deliberations in the crafting of the IRR for the UHC.
Presently, everyone in the healthcare industry is anticipating the implementation of the UHC. “There are some apprehensions, but it has been agreed that we will give it a try. Adjustments can be introduced later as the need arises,” says PHA president Huberto Lapuz.
Today, the PHA has a total of 1,891 members and increasing — 1,141 private and 750 government healthcare facilities, and are expecting to breach the 2,000 mark by next year.