[ DOH DEPARTMENT MEMORANDUM NO. 148, S. 2003, November 13, 2003 ]

CLARIFICATION ON PHYSICAL PLANT REQUIREMENTS OF CLINICAL LABORATORIES



Pursuant to Administrative Order No. 59, s. 2001 - Rules and Regulations Governing the Establishment, Operation and Maintenance of Clinical Laboratories in the Philippines, the following clarification on certain provision/s shall take effect immediately.

PHYSICAL PLANT

1.  All categories of laboratories shall have a clinical work area, waiting/reception area, pathologist area and access to toilet facilities.

2.  The clinical work area shall be sufficient to accommodate its activities and allow for smooth and coordinated workflow.

3.  The clinical work area for each category of laboratory shall have the following specifications:


  1. PRIMARY CATEGORY: Minimum of 10 square meters in floor area, with sink.

  2. SECONDARY CATEGORY: Minimum of 20 square meters in floor area, with sink.

  3. TERTIARY CATEGORY: Minimum of 60 square meters in floor area, with sink and Microbiology room.

4.  The pathologist area may be a part of or separate from the clinical work area.

5.  A toilet for patients shall be accessible from the laboratory.  It may either be adjacent to, near or within the laboratory.

Please be guided accordingly.

Adopted: 13 Nov. 2003


(SGD.) MANUEL M. DAYRIT, M.D., M.Sc
Secretary of Health