UPMASA Increases Capacity of Rural Doctors Through ICT Grant
As part of the efforts to enhance the capacity of rural doctors on eHealth and Telemedicine, the University of the Philippines Medical Alumni Society of America (UPMASA), through the UP Manila – National Telehealth Center (UPM-NThC), initiated the UPMASA-DOH-UPM-NThC ICT Grant for deserving doctors practicing in remote areas of the Philippines. Last May 21, 2009, Asus Eee Laptops were awarded to six Doctors-to-the-Barrios during their 32nd Continuing Medical Education at the Robbinsdale Hotel, Quezon City. The six recipients were: Dr. Ferdinand B. Pekas from Placer, Surigao del Norte, Dr. Matthew B. Bawayan from Asipulo, Ifugao, Dr. Yashier P. Maali from Sibutu, Tawi-tawi, Dr. Jennifer G. Coritico from Santander, Cebu, Dr. Cherrilyn G. Zablan from Alilem, Ilocos Sur, and Dr. Augustus Caesar Bigornia from Hungduan, Ifugao.
With this grant, it is envisioned that an ICT tool, such as a laptop, will make the telereferral process more efficient and hopefully would translate to quality care for patients.
