The Philippine Psychiatric Association has embarked on the daunting task of defining in operational terms the boundaries of the relationship between the psychiatrist and the pharmaceutical industry - not only in the legalistic terms but on the higher dimension of ethics. Relationships with industry are critical but necessary. It just needs redefining through. There have to be relationships with industry, but within a framework that respects the independence of the physician and does not unduly affect their judgements about patient care.
PSYCHIATRY ; ETHICS, PROFESSIONAL

The COVID-19 pandemic has had pervasive effects on society at large, specifically disrupting routine and established processes at the household, organizational, and community levels. The Philippine Psychiatric Association organized the Fourth Southeast Asia Mental Health Forum to discuss issues and share experiences on how this community can respond to the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Three common challenges for the mental health community were identified – (a) ensuring the continuity of services for persons with psychiatric disorders in different settings; (b) preventing spread of COVID-19 infection in in-patient or residential mental health facilities; and (c) addressing the emergent demand for mental health services from health workers and the general population experiencing psychological symptoms because of the pandemic situation. In the face of these challenges, two broad groups of good practices and innovations were conceptualized and implemented by professionals and institutions: (a) development of alternative arrangements for the delivery of mental health services; and (b) mobilization of stakeholders and resources to ensure whole-of-government and whole-of-society approaches. The lessons and ideas that emerged from the forum may find applicability not only in the next few months during which COVID-19 may persist in our midst (i.e., the “new normal”), but also in other future events that may cause the same level of societal impact and disruption.
Mental Health ; COVID-19 ; Asia, Southeastern ; Mental Health Services ; Philippines