PROGRAMS

Best and Better Course

Sub-Committee on Trauma
Philippine College of Surgeons

The Trauma Commission under the Philippine College of Surgeons have developed ways to address the different needs of the different health sectors and training programs when it comes to Trauma. These includes the different courses being put up by the commission for training, such as the Basic Emergency Skills in Trauma (BEST) and the Basic Evaluation and Training in Trauma and Emergency Response (BETTER). The BEST course was first offered in 2006 to surgical residents and PCS fellows, when international trauma courses at that time were expensive. It was through the efforts of the following: Dr.Daniel A. Dela Paz, Dr. Teodoro J. Herbosa, Dr. Ma. Luisa Aquino, Dr. Harry P. Supan, Dr. Mark Marinas, The PCS Secretariat, Dr. Arturo Mendoza (PSGS president, 2006) and the course director, Dr. Orlado O. Ocampo together with the rest of the Technical working group Dr. Ray Malilay, Dr. Adrien Quidlat, Dr.Ray Sarmiento, Dr.Joel Macalino,. Dr. Jorge Concepcion, Dr. Raymundo Resurreccion, Dr. Leoncio Kaw, Dr. Joseph Juico.

Two years later, as the course became popular and gained the interest of non-surgeons, on 2008 PCS President Dr. Armando Crisostomo, in coordination with the Philippine Society for the Surgery of Trauma and the Philippine Academy of Family Physicians, initiated the development of a similar program for general medical practitioners. Hence, the introduction of the BETTER course.

BEST Course objective:

  1. To enhance the basic skills of health care provider in the management of the injured patient.
  2. To lay the groundwork for the establishment of “standard of care” in trauma management
  3. To provide a rapid reference and detailed approach to the treatment of specific injuries.

BETTER Course Objectives:

  1. To enhance the basic skills of general practitioner in the management of the injured patient.
  2. To lay the groundwork for the establishment of “standard of care” in trauma management in view of varying local conditions.
  3. To provide a rapid reference and detailed approach to the assessment, stabilization, treatment and transfer criteria of specific injuries.

Fifty percent of trauma Injuries can be prevented through proper training and education. Thus, the Commission is making sure that these courses are extended to all interested parties to improve the quality of health care system in our community. The courses offered includes reading materials, pre and post test evaluation, focused group discussion and hands on workshop. The course lasts for two days and a certificate is presented to the participants who have completed and passed the entire course.

Check ATLS Course schedule