Our nation’s doctors are the frontline guardians of our health, dedicating their lives to saving ours. Yet, they are increasingly under siege. A recent controversy involving broadcaster and Senator Raffy Tulfo has brought to light the growing trend of public attacks and harassment directed at medical professionals in the Philippines.
MORE FOR YOU: [The Quiet Shake-Up In The DOH: What’s At Stake For Public Health Leadership?]
What Tulfo’s Controversy Reveals
Senator Raffy Tulfo has been vocal in exposing alleged unethical practices within the medical community. In April 2024, he presented evidence in a Senate hearing alleging that some doctors were involved in a multi-level marketing scheme linked to Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc., presenting lists and purported checks as proof. While these allegations warrant investigation, the company has denied the claims.
The Philippine General Hospital (PGH) Physicians’ Association condemned similar actions by Tulfo in 2018, accusing him of cyberbullying and doctor-shaming after he uploaded a video of a doctor allegedly refusing to treat a child. The association argued that such actions violate the Code of Ethics of Media Practitioners and the Data Privacy Law.
The Broader Threat to Public Health
Publicly shaming and accusing doctors without due process can lead to a significant erosion of trust between healthcare professionals and the communities they serve. When patients perceive their doctors as untrustworthy or unethical, they may hesitate to seek medical care or question legitimate medical advice. This mistrust can result in delayed treatments, worsened health outcomes, and an overall decline in public health.
Moreover, such attacks can lead to "defensive medicine," where doctors order unnecessary tests or avoid certain treatments to protect themselves from potential criticism or legal repercussions. This practice not only drives up healthcare costs but also diverts resources from necessary care.
The Philippine Medical Association (PMA) and various medical societies have raised alarms over what they describe as an "unprecedented wave of harassment and reputational attacks" on Filipino doctors, often amplified through social media. These attacks are not just personal; they threaten the integrity of the entire healthcare system.
Standing Up for Our Nation’s Healers
It is imperative that we support our doctors and stand against unwarranted attacks that undermine their credibility and the trust placed in them by the public. The PMA has called for stronger safeguards against harassment and more responsible use of social media platforms. Protecting our doctors means protecting the health of the nation.
An attack on our doctors is an attack on every Filipino. We must unite to defend our nation's healers and ensure that they can continue to provide the care and compassion that our people deserve.
RELATED: [Check Medicine Prices Anytime On The eGovPH App — DOH]
