Sen Ejercito seeks inquiry into doctor-pharma collusion

Senator JV Ejercito has filed a resolution seeking an inquiry into alleged unethical practices involving doctors and pharmaceutical companies, following reports of collusion.

Health advocate Dr. Tony Leachon revealed that pharmaceutical firms recruit doctors based on prescription volume and reward them with luxurious incentives.

Ejercito confirmed he received whistleblower complaints two to three months ago about a pharmaceutical firm composed of doctor shareholders importing quality drugs for conditions like hypertension and diabetes.

The senator emphasized the need to investigate potential violations of ethical standards, conflicts of interest, and contraventions of RA 11223 or the Universal Healthcare Act.

According to Ejercito, patients must follow their doctor's prescriptions, creating a conflict especially in rural areas where prescription collusion may undermine patient trust.

Ejercito said that the alleged collusion between pharmaceutical companies and some medical practitioners may contribute to high out-of-pocket medical expenses for Filipinos.

The Department of Health (DOH) is investigating these reports and warned that doctors proven to accept gifts from pharmaceutical companies may face license suspension or revocation.