Reforming seafarer health care through holistic approach

Reforming seafarer health care through holistic approach
Yashika F. Torib October 26, 2022 https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/10/26/business/maritime/reforming-seafa...

PLACING truth at a premium can be difficult for many, especially when it is bound to transform norms, mindsets and systems.

Such is the case for seafaring, a centuries-old profession where any form of change is welcomed by the initial reluctance, indifference and doubt of people who are used to doing things the "traditional" way.

This is what greeted Didoy Lubaton, a medical doctor, when he was first introduced to the maritime industry.

Lubaton was mentoring individuals through public health seminars when he came across Mylene Borillo, president of OSM Maritime Services, in 2019.

"It was she who introduced me to the maritime industry. We started Nordic Medical Clinic (NMC) to help seafarers through a holistic approach to health care," Lubaton recalled.

In the pre-employment medical examination (PEME) he conducted on seafarers, the young doctor observed that majority of the illnesses were lifestyle diseases such as hypertension, elevated cholesterol and diabetes. Musculoskeletal diseases were also found to be the most common onboard ships as well as the increasing mental health issues of seafarers.

"These illnesses became some of the threats to their livelihood and declining health. It is in this light that NMC pursued to raise the standards of PEME in the Philippines from mere testing to a holistic care center," he said.

With the truth of lifestyle illnesses and the obligation-inducing reality it entails made known, Lubaton encountered his first challenge.

"There was a question as to whether companies and stakeholders were willing to adapt to the holistic care approach and apply it in ship operations. The seafarers' unhealthy behaviors were not easy to change; it takes a lot of time and effort to rewire the minds and shift behaviors to a healthier and sustainable future," he commented.

With their unstable working schedules, isolation and dangerous working environment, Lubaton found it challenging to employ a holistic health-care approach to seafarers such as regular sleep, social connections and other meaningful health activities.

What motivated Lubaton to push through, however, went beyond his profession. It was a memory of a childhood surrounded by seafarers and raised by a family who worked in the maritime industry.

"I may not be a seafarer, but I am rooted in this industry. My father, early in his career, used to work in a local manning agency. I have relatives who work on cruise ships. These gave me the heart and motivation to give the best care possible as much as I could," he said.

Lubaton's pure intentions for the seafarers thrived. A few years following his work on holistic health care, discernible and positive outcomes were observed among his patients.

"It is so fulfilling to see outcomes such as a significant decrease in the medical repatriation rate of the companies we serve. That means healthier seafarers on board, safer ships and smooth operations. Seafarers also give personal feedback that they feel so cared for and valued by their company through NMC. These are the best parts of my job — creating solutions for the industry and our seafarers," he explained.

As Lubaton continues to advocate for the holistic care of seafarers, he likewise maintains the same in his health.

"I am on the journey of learning and practicing more meditation. I have experienced that meditation, even for a few minutes, is a powerful tool for self-care and mental health, doesn't require much, and can be replicated and taught to more people. I also love having conversations over coffee or tea with people in my free time, or I can also be just reading a book or listening to a podcast or music," he shared.

Lubaton sees himself as a generous servant through the influence of his father, a doctor who genuinely cares for his patients as influenced by his mother, and a humble and passionate person through the mentorship of Borillo.

"What I am most proud of is my family, that I can love and care for my wife Mayi and together, raise our kids Haeli and Hosea."