Law Summary

Introduction

This Administrative Order, issued by the Secretary of Health, outlines the procedures for the preparation, classification, review, approval, dissemination, use, and monitoring of administrative issuances within the Department of Health (DOH), effective July 15, 1994. It amends previous regulations set forth in DOH Administrative Order No. 111, S. 1963.

Statement of Policy

The order establishes that administrative issuances are essential documents that guide management policies and facilitate the proper implementation of health programs.

• Definition: Administrative issuances are official instruments embodying management policies, guidelines, directives, instructions, and reminders.
• Purpose: They serve as vital tools for effective health administration and must be disseminated promptly.

Types of Administrative Issuances

Effective July 15, 1994, the following forms of administrative issuances are recognized:

a. Administrative Order

• Definition: Issuances that provide policies and guidelines for implementing health laws.
• Scope:
  • Covers organizational changes, policies, regulations, and functions within the Department.
  • Must be signed by the Secretary and published in the Official Gazette for implementation if covered by special laws.
• Limitations:
  • Cannot prescribe penalties unless authorized by law.
  • Remains in effect until rescinded or amended.

b. Department Order

• Definition: Instructions directed to specific individuals or groups on administrative matters.
• Scope:
  • Includes personnel assignments, travel instructions, transfers, and committee designations.

c. Department Circular

• Definition: Addresses internal administrative matters within the Department.
• Scope:
  • Includes compliance guidelines from other offices and official communications.

d. Department Memorandum

• Definition: Reminders concerning previous administrative issuances.
• Scope:
  • Covers required reports and communications on administrative matters.

General Instructions

This section outlines the processes for the preparation, classification, approval, dissemination, and monitoring of administrative issuances.

e. Preparation/Classification

• Requirements:
  • Each issuance should cover only one subject matter.
  • Must be prepared using official stationery and prescribed formats.

f. Review/Approval

• Process:
  • All issuances require clearance through relevant Undersecretaries and may involve the Health Policy Development Staff.
  • Key officials must indicate their initials on the issuance to confirm review.
• Authority: Significant issuances require the Secretary's signature; all others may be approved by Undersecretaries.

g. Dissemination

• Requirements:
  • Issuances must be properly classified and chronologically numbered.
  • Copies must be filed for safekeeping and disseminated to relevant offices.

h. Use/Monitoring

• Responsibilities:
  • Heads of Offices are responsible for monitoring compliance with the issuances.
  • The Administrative Service oversees the overall implementation of the Administrative Issuance System.
• Consequences: Any issuance not compliant with these regulations post-July 15, 1994, is revoked.

Amendments

The order modifies Administrative Order No. 111, S. 1963, which previously amended Administrative Orders Nos. 85 and 86 of 1960.

Key Takeaways

• The order establishes a structured framework for the creation and dissemination of administrative issuances within the DOH.
• It emphasizes the importance of clear classification and proper review processes to ensure the effectiveness of health administration.
• Significant changes and responsibilities are assigned to various offices within the Department, outlining a clear chain of accountability for compliance and implementation.