MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Shelley de la Vega, MD, MSc, FPSGM
November 2007
From Multidisciplinary to Transdisciplinary
With the goal of strengthening and developing PSGM
as an organization, a Vision-Mission and a series of strategic planning workshops were launched in 2006. Sharing this common vision is crucial. Enjoining all members in its fruition is an ongoing process.
We speak of multidisciplinary care of older persons. It is my hope that we live this process of communication and cooperation within the PSGM. Like charity, this approach of caring begins at home, and our organizational home is PSGM. After we conquer the multidisciplinary challenge, we can move forward to the next step, as stated in our VALUES: Interdisciplinary care. “We value interdependence with the other specialties in medicine and the other allied medical sciences.” Our Policy Project brings together various experts in Geriatrics toward common goals. Our Corporate Support Program invites the pharmaceutical and private sector to work with us in achieving our vision and mission. Taking this concept to an even higher level, the 2007 collaborative convention with the Okinawa Longevity Institute and AIM Policy Center is a prime example of Transdisciplinary care. Strategies match action to dreams, and in certain areas, the dream is yet to be realized. It is our VALUES that will fuel how and if we achieve our Vision and Mission.
Organizational Governance
An organization grows in an environment of trust. Organizational Governance demands transparency and accountability. Transparency means less secrecy, greater openness, and more sharing of relevant information by which performance can be judged. Accountability means less patronage and greater stress on merit. We have laid several guidelines that reflect our desire for accountability – not only for reference, but for action and application. Our active members have grown with the organization through a process of shared decision making, consultation and openness. This leads to increased competence and a more intense search for personal and organizational excellence.
Personal Leadership and Organizational Excellence
When I started my term as President, I stated openly that what I saw in our members are future leaders. In these past two years I have observed that many PSGM officers, committee chairs and members are determined to live a life of personal leadership. Because of this, I am confident that we are close to attaining Organizational Excellence. The way we practice Geriatric Medicine is changing rapidly, reflecting an increase in globalization. As we move into the future, let us focus on teamwork, mutual respect, and truthfulness, knowing that the vision of PSGM is the achievement of the Highest Standards of Healthcare for Older Persons in the Philippines, towards a Nation that is Nurturing to all Generations.
