Question & AnswerQ&A (DOH ADMINISTRATIVE ORDER NO. 183, S. 2004)
The primary purpose of the DOH in regulating ASCs is to ensure safety and protect public health through the development and enforcement of licensure and regulatory standards.
An ASC is a government or privately owned institution primarily organized, constructed, renovated, or otherwise established to provide elective surgical treatment for out-patients whose recovery, under normal circumstances, does not require inpatient care.
The rules apply to all government and private ambulatory surgical clinics, whether free-standing or within hospital premises but with different ownership from the hospital.
Documents include the notarized BHFS application form, letter of endorsement, memorandum of agreement with a hospital, fire safety inspection certificate, list of surgical operations, ICD 10 training certificate, list of personnel and equipment, contract of lease if rented, copies of other licenses, quality assurance program, and letter of intent to comply with clinical practice guidelines.
Any ASC operating without a valid license shall be immediately closed and fined not less than ₱10,000 but not more than ₱50,000.
The BHFS may suspend or revoke the license if after investigation and hearing, the ASC is found guilty of violating any relevant provision, rule, or regulation related to its operation.
The licensee must request a hearing within 10 days of notification. The BHFS conducts a hearing within 30 days. After decision, the licensee can appeal the decision to the Office of the Secretary of Health within 30 days of receipt of the decision.
Each ASC must have a Memorandum of Agreement with at least one hospital with secondary care service capability to provide inpatient care during emergencies, with patients or relatives allowed to choose the hospital.
The license is valid for three years. Renewal applications can be filed 90 days before expiration; if not applied for within 30 days after expiration, the ASC must cease operation and apply for a new license.
Applications must include set documents and fees paid. The BHFS reviews and approves or disapproves issuance within 30 days. If not processed within 30 days, the permit is considered approved.
PhilHealth accredits health facilities and conducts utilization reviews and performance monitoring to support accreditation standards and promote best clinical practices in ambulatory surgical services.
Change of management or ownership with operational disruption or transfer of location requires a new permit to construct and license to operate.
Key standards include effective governance, accurate medical records, proper human resource management, qualified personnel, well-maintained equipment, safe environment, proper waste management, and hospital affiliation for inpatient care.
No, freestanding ASCs are prohibited from including the word 'hospital' in their name.