Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 11509)
The short title of Republic Act No. 11509 is the 'Doktor Para sa Bayan Act.'
The State declares the policy to protect and promote the right to health through appropriate health workforce management and to promote social justice by expanding access to quality medical education to deserving students.
Deserving Filipino students who want to pursue a degree in Doctor of Medicine in state universities and colleges (SUCs) or partner private higher education institutions (PHEIs).
The scholarship covers free tuition and other fees, allowances for books, clothing, accommodation, transportation, internship fees, medical board review fees, license fees, annual medical insurance, and other education-related allowances.
Applicants must be Filipino citizens residing in the Philippines; graduating students or graduates of prerequisite undergraduate programs; must pass the medical school entrance exams; and must have a National Medical Admission Test (NMAT) score required by CHED and the institution.
Scholars must sign an agreement, carry a full subject load, finish the Doctor of Medicine program within the prescribed time, undertake mandatory internship, take the medical board exam within one year after internship, and render return service as provided.
The scholarship grant is terminated and the scholar must repay the full cost of the scholarship and related benefits received.
Scholars must serve in government health offices or hospitals in their hometown or underserved municipalities for at least one year for every scholarship year availed, within six to seven years after passing the board exam.
They are required to pay twice the full cost of the scholarship and related expenses. The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) may deny license renewal if payment is not made, except in cases of severe illness.
CHED conducts information dissemination, curriculum improvement, program management, and policy formulation. DOH determines physician needs, ensures hospital availability, integrates scholars into public service, provides continuous training, and coordinates with LGUs.
LGUs provide support mechanisms for scholars' integration, ensure their safety, coordinate health needs, provide financial assistance when possible, conduct information campaigns, and enforce relevant laws and ordinances.
Every five years from the effectivity of the Act, based on health human resource shortages and consultations with stakeholders.
CHED and DOH shall ensure that each region has at least one medical school within five years and streamline the application process for Doctor of Medicine programs.
Scholars must take the board exam within one year after completing the mandatory internship program.
No, the mandatory return service is separate and distinct from the mandatory internship required prior to the board examination.