Question & AnswerQ&A (DOH ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 2006-0004-A)
The purpose is to ensure access to quality and affordable basic and essential health care for all, particularly the poor, and to implement the Fourmula One reforms in health regulation and health service delivery.
The Bureau of Health Facilities and Services (BHFS) requires all applicants for PTC for the establishment of new hospitals to secure a Certificate of Need from the Center for Health Development (CHD).
Yes, the establishment of new special hospitals, sanitaria, Department of National Defense hospitals, Philippine National Police hospitals, penitentiary hospitals, and research hospitals are exempted from the CON requirement.
The non-refundable application fee for the issuance of a CON is two thousand pesos (P2,000.00), payable to the Cashier of the CHD.
Each CHD shall create a committee composed of at least three members from its technical staff to evaluate the application for a Certificate of Need.
The proposed hospital shall be at least one (1) hour away by the usual means of transportation during most of the year from the nearest existing hospital.
A CON may be granted if the proposed hospital is of a higher level of service capability than existing hospitals located less than 1 hour away or if the proposed hospital is a Level 3 or 4 Hospital and the existing Level 3 or 4 Hospital within less than 1 hour travel distance is in a different province.
The proponent should show documentary proof that it has checked with the local government for the existence of a local Strategic Plan for the Rationalization of the Health Care Delivery System Based on Health Needs approved by the DOH.
It includes hospital beds provided by existing government and private general hospitals plus general hospital beds proposed by previous applicants with approved CON and PTC applications and undergoing LTO processing, excluding beds from special hospitals, DND hospitals, penitentiary hospitals, and special research centers.
They are required to secure a Certificate of Need from the CHD before applying for a new PTC.
Criteria include total capital investment, lot area, strategic location, hospital policies beneficial to low-income populations, percentage of charity beds, qualifications and experience of hospital personnel, and other criteria set by CHD with justification and consistent application.
Provisions not affected by the declaration shall remain valid and effective according to the Separability Clause.
It takes effect upon approval and publication in the official gazette or newspaper of general circulation.