BACKGROUND

The Universal Health Care (UHC) Act (RA 11223) which basically restructured the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation and enhanced health financing mechanisms, looks like a total reform of the Philippine health system. As a preparation for these reforms, the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians has undertaken a developmental project designed to prepare its members for these reforms. This research is an attempt to provide additional information for this PAFP project in terms of the primary care orientation of family practice clinics.

OBJECTIVE

The overall objective of this research is to determine the primary care orientation of family practice clinics among the members of the PAFP Batangas Chapter.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the primary care orientation of family practice clinics, focusing on active members of the PAFP Batangas Chapter. Using purposive sampling, participants completed a pilot-tested questionnaire, evaluating aspects like first-contact, comprehensive, continuing, and coordinated care. Emphasis was placed on organized medical records and quality improvement activities. Despite facing initial reluctance, the survey garnered 74 responses from 117 members, acknowledging a shortfall in reaching the target and a decrease in confidence level from 95% to 85%. The study provides insights into diverse demographics and practice characteristics of voluntary participants among active PAFP members in Batangas.

RESULTS

The survey encompassed various aspects of healthcare provision among members of the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians (PAFP) Batangas chapter. In First Contact Care, respondents exhibited a consistent practice of providing after-hours contact, obtaining informed consent, and allocating varied consultation times. Notably, mental and behavioral assessments showed room for improvement. The Comprehensiveness of Services highlighted variations, with Fellows extending services, but family planning services exhibited lower engagement. In Record Keeping, there was an inclination towards paper-based records, with Fellows leading in standardized systems. Continuing Care reflected a positive trend in consistent doctor-patient relationships, while awareness levels varied. Coordination of Care demonstrated varying strengths in referral agreements, with Fellows consistently adhering more. In Quality Improvement, all Fellows engaged, while others showed diverse participation rates, emphasizing the reliance on clinical guidelines. The survey underscores a commitment to ongoing professional development, as reflected in Continuing Professional Development points. Overall, the findings reveal both strengths and areas for improvement, emphasizing the need for standardized practices and continuous enhancement in the provision of healthcare services.

CONCLUSION

This study identified the overall primary care orientation of family and community physicians who were active members of the PAFP Batangas Chapter. Armed with this information, effective strategies could be developed to prepare PAFP members for the reforms in the UHC.

Human ; Universal Health Care ; Physicians, Family