Title
DOH LTO Requirement for Birthing Clinics
Law
Philhealth Circular No. 2018-0002
Decision Date
May 23, 2018
Starting in 2018, all birthing homes and maternity clinics must obtain a valid Department of Health License to Operate as a prerequisite for PhilHealth accreditation, ensuring quality health services and compliance with established standards.

Scope and Coverage

  • Applies specifically to all birthing homes and lying-in/maternity clinics.

General Guidelines for Accreditation

  • Accreditation is based on health care institutions' capability and integrity.
  • Requirement of a valid DOH License to Operate (LTO) for initial, renewal, and re-accreditation applications.
  • Fraudulent or unethical practices diminish integrity affecting accreditation.
  • All health professionals attending deliveries and related procedures in these facilities must be PhilHealth accredited.

Document Submission Requirements

  • Initial and Re-accreditation require:
    • Valid DOH License to Operate
    • Signed performance commitment
    • Provider data record (PDR)
    • Accreditation fee (Php1,500)
    • Updated certificates as Newborn Screening and Hearing Screening Facility or Memorandum of Agreement
    • Photographs of the facility
    • Location map
    • Statement of intent (if applicable)
  • Renewal submissions within January 1-31 must include:
    • Valid DOH LTO
    • Signed performance commitment
    • PDR
    • Accreditation fee
    • Updated newborn screening certificates or agreements
    • Latest audited financial statement (by June 30 of the succeeding accreditation cycle)

Pre-accreditation Survey

  • Conducted by PhilHealth for initial accreditation, re-accreditation due to gaps, or transfer of location.

Additional Requirements for Family Planning Services

  • Health staff must have certificates from DOH recognized training providers as per PhilHealth Circulars 25-2015 and 38-2015.

Monitoring and Evaluation

  • PhilHealth conducts monitoring visits assessing compliance with standards, quality of care, patient satisfaction, financial risk protection, and fraud prevention.
  • Uses PhilHealth's Health Care Provider Assessment System (HCP PAS).
  • Employs DOH licensing requirements and additional PhilHealth requirements for monitoring.

Repealing Clause

  • This circular supersedes and amends provisions of prior PhilHealth Circulars on maternity and newborn care provider accreditation.
  • Conflicting provisions of earlier issuances are repealed; consistent provisions remain valid.

Effectivity

  • The circular takes effect 15 days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation.
  • It will be deposited with the National Administrative Register at the University of the Philippines Law Center.

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