Is facilitator's role just to facilitate?
By Afrina Ghazali | November 22nd, 2024
On 15th October 2024, at the 2nd International Health and Wellness Tourism Congress (IHWTC) in Manila, a thought-provoking panel discussion titled "Revolutionising Access to Healthcare: The Facilitator's Role" was led by Mr. So Iizuka, Founder and CEO of Trambellir Sdn Bhd. This engaging session highlighted the crucial role of facilitators in shaping the future of healthcare accessibility, focusing on industry trends, the importance of compliance, and cybersecurity measures.
Mr. Iizuka skillfully guided a distinguished panel of industry leaders, including Mr. Jonald Agbuya, Mr. Lawrence Sibayan, Mr. Marek Holowko and Mr. Pierre Hollenbeck. These experts shared their insights into the role of health tourism in expanding healthcare access especially globally, with a special focus on the facilitator’s role in ensuring that patients are connected with safe, reliable, and high-quality healthcare services.
Among the prominent attendees were Mrs. Liza Araneta Marcos, the First Lady of the Philippines, and Mrs. Christina Garcia Frasco, the Secretary of the Department of Tourism of the Philippines, showcasing the significance of the event and its relevance to the country’s growing health and wellness tourism sector.
During the session, Mr. Iizuka emphasised the need for facilitators to remain vigilant when it comes to compliance with healthcare regulations and international standards. He noted that while the global healthcare landscape is becoming more interconnected, the risks associated with data breaches and cyber threats are growing. As such, he stressed the importance of implementing robust cybersecurity countermeasures to protect patient data and ensure the integrity of healthcare systems.
The panellists echoed Mr. Iizuka's sentiments, discussing how their respective organisations prioritise safety, efficiency, and trust. The discussion also touched upon the critical role of collaboration between governments, healthcare providers, and facilitators in driving sustainable growth within the health tourism industry.
The session was an eye-opener for many, showcasing how facilitators are not just intermediaries but key players in revolutionising healthcare access. By ensuring compliance, leveraging technology, and maintaining high standards of care, they can play a pivotal role in shaping a more inclusive, secure, and accessible global healthcare system.
