DOH orders hospitals to report cancer cases

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Health (DOH) has issued an administrative order mandating hospitals and other medical facilities to report cases of cancer and other non-communicable diseases.

DOH Secretary Enrique Ona said government and private hospitals should submit a report of diagnosed cases of chronic non-communicable diseases to the government’s Unified Registry System.

Ona said the unified registry system will collect data on non-communicable diseases, including injuries and disabilities, for monitoring and planning of health programs.

“Collecting data on non-communicable diseases is essential for public health planning,” he said.

The order covers all DOH offices such as provincial, district and municipal health offices as well as private clinics and hospitals.

All covered health facilities are required to report diagnosed cases of cancer, diabetes, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD), renal diseases, blindness, mental health, cardiovascular diseases, injuries, violence and disabilities on a regular basis.

The health chief noted that cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes are among the top killer illnesses in the country.

“These lifestyle-related diseases account for more than half of all deaths annually,” Ona said.

He said data submitted to the unified registry system can be accessed by the Bureau of Health Facilities and Development and will be included in the required hospital statistical report.