MANILA, Philippines - Federico Aranzamendez III, MD has been guided throughout his life by his philosophy which is: “First do no harm and then do good and always strive to make a difference.”
Asked why he chose to specialize in ophthalmology, he replies,” Ophthalmology is very exciting because we get to use the latest technology and equipment, and the results of our surgeries are instantaneous. Our patients are ecstatic when they can see clearly again after surgery, calling it a miracle.”
His stint in government engendered in him an admiration for government doctors serving in remote areas of the country, who sacrifice a lot in terms of financial and career opportunities that pass them by. He would have remained a government physician were it not for the fact that he needed to care for his growing family.He nurtures the hope, however, of returning to public service.
Meanwhile, he has started his private practice full time at his clinics at Edmed Multispecialty Clinic on Wednesdays and Fridays , at Good Shepherd in Bayan Bayanan, Concepcion, Marikina on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and at Borough Med Care in Eastwood City on Fridays.
His patients are usually senior citizens ranging from 60 to 90 years old, but he also performs surgery on younger patients. His youngest patient is nine months old, his oldest, 100.
“Eye examinations should be done routinely for all newborn babies. Eye checkups must be done upon entry in school,” says the good doc.
“Preventive medicine is still the best through a healthy lifestyle. Most eye problems are related to systemic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia. Some problems are due to genetics and it is advisable to consult an eye doctor early in life and have a regular eye checkup for good measure. Most eye diseases are curable if detected early,” he explains.
He is pleased to note that ophthalmology in the Philippines is at par with its foreign counterparts in terms of knowledge, skills, and the use of modern equipment.
“Whenever I have time, I join medical and surgical missions. They are part of my life,”he says candidly.