DOH programs duplicate LGU functions – group

MANILA, Philippines —   A network of health development experts said funding for the community health programs of the Department of Health (DOH) should be discontinued as these only duplicate the functions of local government units (LGUs).

The Universal Health Care (UHC) Collective said services rendered under the DOH’s Bagong Urgent Care and Ambulatory Service or BUCAS Centers and PuroKalusugan program are mere duplications of local functions under the Local Government Code.

“Since they are duplicating LGU functions, the funding for these programs should not be allowed by the Department of Budget and Management, and Congress should question their inclusion in the National Expenditure Program, if the President includes it in his proposal,” said Dr. Juan Antonio Perez III of the UHC Collective.

He said it would be better if the DOH would assist LGUs in improving their work in health services, instead of launching additional local health initiatives.

“Redirect funding to assist LGUs to implement devolved functions and primary health care under the Universal Health Care Act,” Perez urged.