In the Philippines, the administrative control of health services was devolved to local government units (LGUs). To ensure that the quality of health services was maintained or improved in a setting of devolution and for the national government to continuously provide guidance in setting health standards, a quality improvement initiative was created with the main strategy as voluntary "certification" of health facilities. This initiative was developed in 1998 and implemented in 1999. There was an overwhelming response from the devolved local governments. National and regional teams conducted assessment visits to hospitals and primary health facilities nationwide. Towards the end of 1999, around 481 rural health units, 17 hospitals have been certified as meeting quality standards. These are called "Sentrong Sigla" (Centers of Vitality) facilities. With the favorable response of local government units, the Philippines Department of Health is planning on expanding the program to include all types of hospitals and to also cover barangay health units in the next few years.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the presentation, the participants should be able to 1. Discuss the quality improvement initiative in the Philippines, and 2. Identify the key issues in managing and implementing a nationwide quality initiative in a devolved setting
Keywords: Quality Improvement, International Public Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Philippines Department of Health; Management Sciences for Health through USAID's Integrated Family Planning and Maternal Health Project
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employment with Philippines Department of Health