Manila, Philippines – Some 100 health and computer science students and faculty from different campuses in Luzon flocked to attend the Philippine Undergraduate Research on eHealth (PUReHealth) Awards Student Orientation held at the BSLR-East, University of the Philippines (UP) Manila College of Medicine  last February 11.

eHealth experts of NTHC gave lectures on how technology could aid in solving health problems of the country. Dr. Gene Nisperos, NTHC Research Associate discussed the building blocks of health systems ending with Nora Aunor’s “Walang himala” tagline which emphasized every individual’s role on solving the health care problem of the Philippines. The orientation also showcased NTHC’ experience in eMedicine, eRecords, eLearning and Interactive Media for Health. Dr. Alvin Marcelo, former NTHC director and current PhilHealth Chief Information Officer also graced the event as speaker on possible careers on eHealth.

During the open forum, most of the students asked on the legal and ethical concerns in dealing with confidentiality of patient information when using eHealth technologies. Questions on the readiness of the Philippines in adopting health information technology were also raised.

The panelists challenged the students to be creative in developing their entries, especially in thinking of research topics and dealing with the problems that come alongside the research process. On March 3, NTHC will gather students for a web-based seminar (webinar) session, as part of efforts to further their learning on eHealth. This will also help them develop their research ideas and clarify existing eHealth innovations with NTHC eHealth experts. Dr. Ada Lyn Yao, Coordinator for Capacity building initiatives of NTHC said that the webinar will also be recorded and will be available to registered participants who will miss the session.

Aside from this activity, a series of topic queries and consultations will also be held in coordination with NTHC experts to guide students as they develop their study.