In a momentous announcement, the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) unveiled that 1,906 candidates out of 3,434 have triumphed in the Physicians Licensure Examination conducted by the Board of Medicine this April 2024. This accomplishment signifies a significant milestone in their journey toward becoming licensed physicians, reflecting their dedication, hard work, and academic excellence.
Spanning across various regions including N. C. R., Baguio, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, Legazpi, Lucena, Pampanga, Rosales, Tacloban, Tuguegarao, and Zamboanga, the examination rigorously assessed candidates on a comprehensive range of medical knowledge and skills. The successful examinees have demonstrated their proficiency and readiness to embark on their professional careers in the field of healthcare.
Amidst the celebration of success, the PRC also announced the top-performing schools in the licensure examination. Leading the rankings is the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center, boasting an impressive passing rate of 89.23%. This remarkable achievement underscores the institution's unwavering commitment to academic excellence and its dedication to producing competent and compassionate healthcare professionals.
Additionally, the PRC recognized the top ten highest-placing examinees in the April 2024 Physicians Licensure Examination. Among them, Christopher Niño Duane Camay Mendoza from Matias H. Aznar Memorial College of Medicine, Inc. (For SWU) secured the top spot with a rating of 89.25%. Following closely behind are Edison Yu Ong from the University of Santo Tomas with a rating of 89.08% and Raian Isabelo Palacay Suyu from Far Eastern University- Nicanor Reyes Med. Found. with a rating of 88.83%. These individuals have showcased exemplary performance, setting a benchmark for excellence in the medical profession.
As these newly licensed physicians embark on their professional journeys, they carry with them the responsibility to uphold ethical standards, provide compassionate care, and contribute positively to the advancement of healthcare in the Philippines. Their success not only reflects their individual achievements but also highlights the collective dedication of educators, mentors, and institutions in nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals.
The PRC extends its heartfelt congratulations to all successful examinees and wishes them the best as they embark on this noble journey of serving humanity through the practice of medicine. With their newfound licensure, these individuals are poised to make significant contributions to the healthcare sector, enriching the lives of countless individuals in the Philippines and beyond.
SOURCE:
PRC Philippines
Functions Overview of the Physician Profession
Physicians, also known as medical doctors, are highly trained professionals who diagnose, treat, and help prevent illnesses and injuries. They play a critical role in the healthcare system by providing comprehensive care to patients. Here's an overview of their functions:
1. Diagnosis
- Medical History: Taking detailed patient histories to understand symptoms and health background.
- Physical Examination: Conducting thorough physical exams to assess patient health and identify signs of illness.
- Diagnostic Tests: Ordering and interpreting diagnostic tests such as blood tests, X-rays, MRIs, and other imaging studies.
- Differential Diagnosis: Analyzing clinical information to differentiate between possible conditions and identify the correct diagnosis.
2. Treatment
- Medical Treatment: Prescribing medications and therapies to treat illnesses and manage symptoms.
- Surgical Procedures: Performing surgeries or minor procedures when necessary.
- Chronic Disease Management: Developing and managing long-term care plans for patients with chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
- Emergency Care: Providing urgent and emergency medical care for acute conditions and injuries.
3. Patient Care and Management
- Patient Education: Educating patients about their conditions, treatment options, and preventive health measures.
- Care Coordination: Coordinating with other healthcare providers, including specialists, nurses, and allied health professionals, to ensure comprehensive care.
- Follow-Up: Monitoring patient progress through follow-up visits and adjusting treatment plans as needed.
- Health Promotion: Promoting healthy lifestyle choices and preventive measures to improve patient health and well-being.
4. Preventive Care
- Screening Programs: Conducting routine screenings for early detection of diseases such as cancer, hypertension, and diabetes.
- Vaccination: Administering vaccines to prevent infectious diseases.
- Risk Assessment: Identifying risk factors for diseases and advising on risk reduction strategies.
- Health Counseling: Providing counseling on diet, exercise, smoking cessation, and other lifestyle factors to prevent illness.
5. Documentation and Record Keeping
- Medical Records: Maintaining accurate and detailed patient records, including medical history, diagnoses, treatment plans, and test results.
- Legal Documentation: Ensuring that all documentation complies with legal and regulatory requirements.
- Electronic Health Records (EHR): Utilizing electronic health record systems to streamline documentation and improve patient care coordination.
6. Research and Continuing Education
- Clinical Research: Participating in or conducting clinical research to advance medical knowledge and improve treatment options.
- Continuing Medical Education (CME): Engaging in continuous education to stay updated with the latest medical advancements, technologies, and best practices.
- Professional Development: Attending medical conferences, workshops, and seminars to enhance professional skills and knowledge.
7. Ethical and Professional Responsibilities
- Patient Confidentiality: Upholding patient confidentiality and privacy in all interactions and documentation.
- Ethical Practice: Adhering to ethical principles and guidelines in patient care and professional conduct.
- Patient Advocacy: Advocating for patient rights and ensuring that patients receive appropriate and equitable care.
8. Specialization and Expertise
- Primary Care: Providing general medical care and acting as the first point of contact for patients.
- Specialization: Pursuing additional training and expertise in specific areas such as cardiology, neurology, pediatrics, oncology, or surgery.
- Subspecialties: Further specializing within a field, such as pediatric cardiology or neuro-oncology.
9. Teaching and Mentorship
- Medical Education: Teaching medical students, residents, and fellows in academic and clinical settings.
- Mentorship: Mentoring junior doctors, medical students, and other healthcare professionals.
- Public Health Education: Providing education and information to the public on health issues and preventive care.
10. Administrative and Leadership Roles
- Healthcare Administration: Taking on administrative roles such as department heads, medical directors, or hospital administrators.
- Policy Development: Contributing to the development of healthcare policies and protocols.
- Quality Improvement: Leading or participating in quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care and safety.
11. Interdisciplinary Collaboration
- Team-Based Care: Working collaboratively with healthcare teams, including nurses, therapists, social workers, and pharmacists, to provide holistic care.
- Consultation: Providing expert consultations to other healthcare providers and participating in multidisciplinary case reviews.
Physicians are central to the healthcare system, providing a wide range of services from preventive care to advanced treatment. Their expertise, combined with their commitment to patient care and continuous learning, ensures that patients receive high-quality medical care.