Question & AnswerQ&A (Administrative Order No. 2016-0042)
The main objective is to decentralize the application process for the DOH Permit to Construct (DOH-PTC) for selected health facilities to the Regional Offices and to harmonize all PTC related issuances to make the process more efficient and client responsive.
The health facilities required to apply include Ambulatory Surgical Clinics, Birthing Homes, Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers (Residential and Non-Residential), Drug Testing Laboratories, Hemodialysis Clinics, Hospitals, Infirmaries, Medical Facilities for Overseas Workers and Seafarers, and Psychiatric Care Facilities (Acute-Chronic and Custodial).
The DOH-PTC is valid for one (1) year after approval and must adhere to the terms and conditions in the permit.
Facilities violating any provision of this AO and its related issuances may be penalized through the issuance of a Cease and Desist Order.
Required documents include a duly accomplished application form, proof of ownership (such as DTI or SEC registrations), three sets of architectural floor plans signed and sealed by a licensed architect or engineer, and an approved Certificate of Need (CON) for new general hospitals.
The Health Facilities Evaluation and Review Committee (HFERC) reviews DOH-PTC applications. It is composed of a Chairperson (Director IV of HFSRB or RLED Chief), a Vice-Chair, and members including at least an Architect/Engineer, Physician, Nurse, and other technical experts as needed.
The applicant may avail of technical assistance/advisory services, revise their documents without additional payment, and resubmit for a second review. If disapproved after the second review, the applicant must re-apply and pay another application fee.
HFSRB and the Regional Offices' Regulation Licensing and Enforcement Division (RLED) share responsibility. HFSRB handles facilities including Ambulatory Surgical Clinics, Drug Abuse Centers, Drug Testing Laboratories, Hemodialysis Clinics, Level 2 and 3 Hospitals, among others, while RLED handles Birthing Homes, Level 1 Hospitals, Add-on Services to Level 1 Hospitals, Infirmaries, and Psychiatric Care Facilities.
The applicant may file a notice of appeal within ten (10) days to the Head of the Office for Health Regulation (OHR). If still dissatisfied, a final appeal can be made to the Secretary of Health, whose decision is absolute and executory.