State Policy on Health and Role of Barangay Health Workers
- The State protects and promotes the right to health.
- Emphasizes Primary Health Care Approach through community participation.
- Barangay health workers are recognized as frontliners.
- Government supports their organization and professional development.
Definition of Barangay Health Worker
- Individuals trained by accredited government or NGOs.
- Voluntarily render primary health care services.
- Accredited by local health board per Department of Health guidelines.
Registration Requirements
- Barangay health workers must register with local health board.
- Local boards send registry copies to Department of Health for national registry.
- Proof of accreditation must be issued.
Determination of Number of Barangay Health Workers
- Department of Health sets ideal ratio of workers to households.
- Total number nationwide limited to not more than 1% of the population.
Incentives and Benefits for Accredited Barangay Health Workers
Eligibility: Active and regular performance of duties.
Hazard Allowance:
- For workers exposed to unavoidable hazards.
- Amount determined by local health board and peace and order council.
Subsistence Allowance:
- For those serving in isolated barangay health stations.
- Equivalent to cost of meals during duty.
Training, Education, and Career Enrichment:
- Educational programs recognizing years of service for academic credit.
- Opportunities for continuing education, scholarships, training, and exposure.
- Scholarship for one child if worker cannot avail above programs.
- Special trainings on traditional medicine, disaster preparedness, etc.
Civil Service Eligibility:
- Second grade eligibility granted after 5 years continuous service.
- Service credited for retirement benefits if hired as regular government employee.
Free Legal Services:
- Provided by Public Attorney's Office in cases related to official duties.
Preferential Access to Loans:
- DOH to establish loan access mechanisms within 180 days.
- 1% of loanable funds set aside for organized barangay health worker groups.
Review and Approval of Benefits
- Local health board reviews and approves benefits involving local funds.
- Ensures benefits are granted only to deserving workers.
Rules and Regulations Implementation
- Department of Health to formulate implementing rules within 180 days.
- Coordination with various government departments and NGOs.
Separability Clause
- Invalidity of any provision does not affect the rest of the Act.
Repealing Clause
- Inconsistent laws, decrees, and orders repealed or amended.
Effectivity
- Act takes effect 15 days after publication in at least two national newspapers.