Law Summary
Roles of the DOH
- Lead agency in articulating national health objectives.
- Direct service provider for major public health programs (e.g., tuberculosis, HIV-AIDS).
- Lead agency in health emergency response and referral systems.
- Technical authority on disease control and prevention.
- Policy maker ensuring equity, access, and quality of health care services.
- Monitoring and evaluation of health programs and services.
- Administrator of selected sub-national health facilities.
- Innovator of new health strategies.
- Advocate for health promotion and healthy lifestyles.
- Capacity-builder for LGUs, private sector, NGOs, and other stakeholders.
- Lead agency in health and medical research.
- Facilitator of health industry development.
- Lead in health emergency preparedness.
- Protector of standards in health care provider training.
- Implementor of the National Health Insurance Law with administrative leadership in health financing.
Powers and Functions of the DOH
- Formulate national health policies and standards.
- Prevent and control leading causes of health issues.
- Develop disease surveillance and health information systems.
- Maintain national health facilities with advanced capabilities.
- Promote public health through information dissemination.
- Implement strategies for appropriate health expenditure.
- Develop sub-national centers for health promotion and disease control.
- Maintain international linkages for technical collaboration.
- Create a health industrial complex environment.
- Lead health efforts during emergencies and disasters.
- Ensure quality training and development of health human resources.
- Oversee health financing ensuring equity and accessibility.
- Articulate and resource national health research agenda.
Rationalization and Streamlining Plan (RSP)
- Required preparation of RSP to guide operational changes and improve efficiency.
- RSP contents:
- Policy shifts.
- Organizational and structural changes.
- Staffing adjustments detailing filled and unfilled positions.
- Resource allocation impacts and budgetary considerations.
- RSP submission to Department of Budget and Management for approval prior to implementation.
Redeployment of Personnel
- Redeployment following RSP shall not reduce rank or compensation.
- Compliance with Civil Service laws and rules required.
Funding for RSP Implementation
- Funding to come from DOH’s existing financial resources.
- Personnel Services budget caps the total staffing pattern costs.
Separation Benefits
- Separated personnel entitled to benefits under existing laws.
- If no existing law coverage, separation benefit equals one month basic salary per year of service plus terminal benefits.
Implementing Authority
- DOH Secretary authorized to implement RSP and determine necessary agencies and facilities.
- Authorized to pilot test programs and pre-corporatization of hospitals aiming at efficiency and effectiveness.
Effectivity
- The Executive Order takes effect immediately upon issuance.