Increase in Authorized Bed Capacity
- The bed capacity of SIMC is increased from fifty (50) beds to three hundred fifty (350) beds.
- The increase in bed capacity is to be implemented progressively over five (5) years from the date of the Act’s approval.
- The Secretary of the DOH is tasked with managing this implementation.
Enhancement of Services and Personnel
- The existing service capabilities, professional healthcare services, and health human resources of SIMC must be upgraded in accordance with the increased bed capacity.
- The Department of Budget and Management (DBM), in consultation with DOH, will create regular plantilla positions needed for a medical center.
- Corresponding increases in maintenance and other operating expenses (MOOE) and personal services (PS) will be provided for the SIMC.
Appropriation and Inclusion in DOH Programs
- The Secretary of Health must immediately include the implementation of this upgrading in the Department of Health’s program.
- Funding for these activities shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act.
Rules and Regulations for Implementation
- Within ninety (90) days from the Act’s approval, the Secretary of DOH, in consultation with the Secretary of DBM, shall promulgate necessary rules and regulations.
- These rules will guide the effective implementation of the provisions of the Act.
Repeal of Previous Laws
- Republic Act No. 3138, which originally established the Southern Isabela Emergency Hospital, and Republic Act No. 8338, which upgraded it to Southern Isabela General Hospital, are repealed.
- Any other inconsistent laws, decrees, orders, issuances, rules, and regulations are likewise repealed, amended, or modified accordingly.
Effectivity Clause
- The Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in any newspaper of general circulation.