Saturday, May 10, 2008

COMMENT ON THE BLOG

“CT Scan Paga Inagurahan”:
I am very glad to know that Aklan has finally decided to get its first CT scan. There should be no reason for a civilized society to be denied access to this technology that is very essential and critical in diagnosing many life threatening diseases.
My guess is that the fee for the technical component (taking the images) for this test is free since it is owned by the provincial hospital. How about the professional component or the interpretation of the test? Are the patients going to be under the mercy of the radiologists from out of town or are they going to be subsidized by the government? Since it is expensive to use this test, are there criteria on who gets it? Is it going to be based on “medical need”, or based on one’s political affiliation, connection or status in the community?
Without knowing the answer to these questions, the supposedly good news will be met with a lot of skepticism. My suggestion is to send our local doctors to Manila to train how to interpret CT scan examinations. Since it is “hooked up in the internet”, I assume it can be accessed by other doctors anywhere in the world who are given a password.
My other suggestion is to ask Aklanons who are practicing in the states who are qualified to interpret specific CT Scan examinations, such as Radiologists, Neurologists, Neurosurgeons, Gastroenterologists, etc., for second opinions on difficult cases. I am certain that they would be willing to donate their time to serve their fellow Aklanons. The test is as good as the one who is reading it.
Even the well trained Specialists need second opinion, more than a few times.
Barok

(Editor: The schedule of payment in the use of CT Scan is stated in Provincial Ordinance No. 2008-003 published on April 20–27 and May 4, 2008 issue of Madyaas Pen. DRSTMH has sent to training physicians to interpret results. At present, Dr. Douglas Budok, a known radiologist is a consultant based in Iloilo City. The provincial government of Aklan is inviting one physician, a diplomate in radiology to go to Kalibo. She is now with St. Lukes Hospital, Quezon City. The use of CT Scan is principally based on medical needs.
Aklanons abroad who are highly qualified to interpret CT Scan results are certainly welcome to assist.) /MP

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