00:00 A lawmaker provided details on an explosive revelation of a possible conspiracy between doctors and pharmaceutical companies
00:07 on the importation of quality imported medicines in a privileged speech.
00:12 Daniel Manalastas tells us more.
00:14 In a privileged speech, Senator Jingo Estrada bared details of alleged collusion between doctors with a pharmaceutical company.
00:25 Estrada said the pharmaceutical company is engaged in distributing anti-hypertensive, anti-diabetic, antibiotic products and health supplements nationwide.
00:36 Estrada bared information on the alleged recruitment style of the company.
00:41 The doctors they recruit, who form a core group, are called "Jedis" because the owners of the company are fond of Star Wars.
00:52 However, Estrada noted that not everyone can be part of the group because there are requirements.
00:58 To become a Jedi, they need to prescribe Belkin's medicine,
01:03 the supplements that the company sells, whether it's for the patient or not.
01:09 Their entry level investment is between P250,000 and P500,000.
01:15 Estrada also detailed the alleged benefits doctors on the take may get.
01:20 "8% rebates based on monthly productivity, usually around P2 million.
01:26 Depends on whether the doctor hit his 3.5% productivity target, they can get an Asian, European or US tour package.
01:36 And lastly, rebates come from cash or luxury items like their dream car.
01:43 Convertibles in cash, expensive cars, Rolexes and other savings rebates."
01:49 The senator meanwhile urged medical professionals to reaffirm their commitment to the ethical standards of medical practice.
01:56 However, the senator clarified that while it is not illegal for medical professionals to engage in business activities,
02:04 "It is highly unethical when a pharmaceutical company owned by doctors
02:10 hires other doctors as agents and pays them commissions based on the prescriptions they give to their patients."
02:20 Senator JV Ejercito for his part wants to emphasize that they are not generalizing doctors.
02:26 "But issues raise several ethical, legal and policy questions.
02:30 First, it contravenes many regulations and protocols meant to insulate doctors from undue influence.
02:36 Second, what is the effect of this on the cost of healthcare?"
02:39 As of now, it is expected the Senate Committee on Health headed by its chairman, Senator Bongo, to conduct a hearing on the matter.
02:47 Daniel Manalastas from the National TV Network for a new and better Philippines.
