The Senate of the Philippines on Monday approved a measure granting the Department of Health (DOH) the authority to determine and adjust the bed capacity and service capability of hospitals under its supervision.
Senate Bill No. 1508, or the “DOH Hospital Bed Capacity and Service Capability Rationalization Act,” enables the DOH to set and approve authorized bed capacities through administrative issuances, taking into account development plans, catchment population, disease burden, available human resources, and healthcare provider networks.
The measure was passed with 20 affirmative votes, zero negative votes, and zero abstentions. It also mandates the continued updating and implementation of the Philippine Health Facility Development Plan to guide modernization and capital outlay investments.
Funding for adjustments in bed capacity and service capability will be included in the annual General Appropriations Act, subject to the standard budget process.
In explaining his vote, Senate Deputy Minority Leader Joel Villanueva expressed full support for the bill and thanked its sponsor, Senate Deputy Majority Leader Risa Hontiveros.
“By authorizing the Department of Health to determine, set, adjust, and approve the authorized bed capacities and corresponding service capabilities of hospitals under its supervision and control, we take a decisive step toward rationalizing our health system, meaningfully address persistent overcrowding, and strengthen the delivery of quality health services nationwide,” Villanueva said.