MADELEINE R. VALERA, MD, MScCHHM, CESO IV

HI! Nice article.

Perhaps PCIJ can further expand their interest on drug procurement by doing a similar study among military and LGU hospitals. I have been studying pharmaceutical and I also did a quick analysis of the DOH drug procurement before the devolution. Still in some regions the DOH Regional Directors are in cahoot with many local gov't officials. We tried to somehow limit such unholy alliance ( don't forget the congressmen and senators) by putting in scientific methods ( Drug Quantification Method, Drug Price Referencing, Coordinated Procurement) but to no avail. I recall during the time of Alran Bengzon, the DOH Regional Directors admitted an SOP of 10-30% (average). Alran together with Rhais Gamboa tried to cut down the corruptions through tailored procurement. Unfortunately, all the mechanisms to bring down corruption if not eradicated lasted only for a short while. Drugs and Medicines are the two most abused items in government procurements, not only in DOH but also in DECS, PAGCOR, PCSO..etc. It is very sad that such corruption is well 'tolerated' and any attempt to control it seems futile.

I am now in PHILHEALTH and I still continue to work on the drug issues.30% of the PhilHealth reimbursement goes to drug, the highest pie and yet a big portion of drug expenditure is shouldered by the patients. I still believe that there is a solution. Thailand was successful in bringing down the cost of drugs, ensuring quality and bring down corruption. It only needs an honest to goodness determination, political will to impose,implement and monitor the reform not only in and among LGUs but in DOH., DILG, BFAD, consumers groups, media..... sa LAHAT.

Thank you for the article and GOODLUCK! Regards to Sheila.