History of Medical Technology in the Philippines

Summary

This lecture delves into the rich history of medical technology in the Philippines, highlighting key milestones such as the establishment of the first hospital by the Spanish in 1565, the creation of the Manila Public Health Laboratory post-WWII, and the evolution of medical education. It underscores the influence of foreign powers, the development of professional organizations like PAMET and PASSMETH, and the importance of accreditation and certification in advancing the field. The lecture also emphasizes the role of collaboration, networking, and continuous learning in the growth of medical technology professionals.

Takeaways

• 🏥 The history of medical technology in the Philippines is deeply intertwined with significant events such as the opening of the Swiss Canal and the establishment of U.S. military bases during World War II.
• 👩‍⚕️ The 26th Medical Laboratory of the Sixth U.S. Army Brigade played a crucial role in introducing medical facilities and healthcare teams to the Philippines, laying the foundation for the development of medical technology.
• 📚 The Spanish colonial period marked the establishment of the first hospital, 'Hospital Real', and the creation of educational institutions like the University of Santo Tomas, which later established faculties of pharmacy and medicine.
• 📰 Early scientific and medical journals such as 'Bulletin de Medicina de Manila' and 'Da Revista Farmaceutica de Filipinas' contributed to the dissemination of medical knowledge in the country.
• 🛑 The Philippine-American War disrupted advancements in medicine and healthcare during the Spanish colonial rule, but post-war developments led to the establishment of the Bureau of Government Laboratories.
• 🏛️ The Manila Public Health Laboratory, originally the 26th Medical Laboratory, was reorganized and renamed after World War II, becoming a key institution for medical technology education and training.
• 🎓 The first Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology (BSMT) program was offered in 1954, marking the formalization of medical technology education in the Philippines.
• 🏛️ The Philippine Union College and Medical Sanitarium in Baisakalokan were pioneers in offering the BSMT program and producing the first graduates in the field.
• 🤝 Professional organizations like the Philippine Association of Medical Technologists (PAMET) and the Philippine Association of Schools of Medical Technology and Public Health (PASSMETH) were established to promote collaboration and professional development.
• 📈 The Philippine medical technology field has seen significant growth and development, with various schools offering BSMT and later Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science (BMLS) programs, and the introduction of international certifications like ASCP.
• 📚 The curriculum of BSMT/BMLS has evolved over time, with the inclusion of pharmacology and other subjects to meet the changing demands of the medical technology profession.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the lecture?

The main topic of the lecture is the history of medical technology in the Philippines.

What are the learning objectives for the students at the end of the session?

The students should be able to trace the history and development of the medical technology field, familiarize themselves with medical technology practice in the Philippines, and identify medical technology organizations in the country.

What significant event during World War II facilitated the start of medical laboratory practice in the Philippines?

The building of United States bases in the island of Leyte in 1944, which allowed the U.S. military forces to bring their health care team to the Philippines to address health problems of American and Filipino soldiers.

Which laboratory was established by the 26th Medical Laboratory of the Sixth U.S. Army Brigade in Manila?

The 26th Medical Laboratory established the laboratory located at Kirikata Street, Santa Cruz, Manila, which is now known as the Public Health Laboratory, a division of the Manila Health Department.

What was the first hospital established by the Spanish Empire in the Philippines?

The first hospital established by the Spanish Empire was Hospital Real in Cebu in 1565, which was later moved to Manila to cater to military patients.

When was the University of Santo Tomas founded, and what significance does it have in the history of medical technology?

The University of Santo Tomas was founded in 1611 and established the first faculties of pharmacy and medicine in 1871, which is significant in the development of medical technology in the Philippines.

What was the role of the Central Board of Vaccination in the Philippines?

The Central Board of Vaccination, which started in 1806, was responsible for producing and distributing vaccine lymph and had 122 regular vaccinators in Manila and other major towns by 1898.

What significant event happened in 1966 in relation to the medical technology profession in the Philippines?

In 1966, Republic Act 4688, also known as the Clinical Laboratory Act, was approved, which led to the professionalization and regulation of the medical technology field.

When was the first licensure examination for medical technology conducted in the Philippines, and who was the first board topnotcher?

The first licensure examination for medical technology was conducted in 1970, and Maredel P Passage was the first board topnotcher.

What changes were made to the medical technology curriculum in the Philippines in 2006?

In 2006, schools and universities updated their curriculum and changed the name of BSMT (Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology) to BMLS (Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Science) following the release of Memorandum Order Number 14 by the Commission of Higher Education.

What is the importance of professional organizations in the field of medical technology in the Philippines?

Professional organizations, such as the Philippine Association of Schools of Medical Technology and Public Health and the Philippine Association of Medical Technologists, are important for collaboration, networking, and professional development and advancement in the field of medical technology.