Manila: The Philippine Heart Association (PHA) has recognized the dedication and expertise of physicians caring for Filipino patients with heart and vascular diseases, including those preserving limb function. 'We stand shoulder to shoulder with other medical societies in full support of those practicing the noble profession of healing,' the PHA said in a statement on Monday. The group reaffirmed its commitment to championing the role of physicians in delivering quality and life-saving care to patients nationwide.
According to Philippines News Agency, the group issued the statement after several medical organizations condemned a social media post by former journalist Ramon Tulfo, accusing a Philippine Heart Center surgeon of charging an excessive professional fee. The statement came from the Philippine College of Physicians, Philippine Medical Association, Philippine College of Surgeons, Philippine Association of Thoracic, Cardiac and Vascular Surgeons, Inc., and Philippine Wound Care Society.
Tulfo criticized a Philippine Heart Center doctor on Facebook for allegedly charging his friend's mother PHP85,000 in professional fee, which brought her total hospital bill to PHP110,000. He questioned the amount, noting the procedure was only on the leg and not a major surgery.
The groups said the claim was unverified and noted the fee was actually lower than usual, stressing the patient was treated with compassion for over 20 days. They urged that disputes over medical care be addressed through proper and respectful channels rather than public shaming, warning that such actions damage reputations, erode public trust, and undermine the patient-doctor relationship.