Are there any fees to be paid?
No docket fees shall be required or assessed in filing a complaint.
What happens once the case is submitted for resolution?
The HFOB, within 60 days from the date it is submitted for resolution, shall render its decision on the merits of the case; stating clearly the facts and the law which it is based. It shall be signed by the members of the Board who participated and rendered the decision.
A copy of the decision shall be furnished to the parties.
What if the complainant fails to file a Comment/Reply?
HFOB shall proceed to render a decision as may be warranted by the facts alleged in the Complaint and Answer.
What happens if the respondent files an Answer?
The HFOB may order the parties to file a Comment/Reply.
What happens if the parties fail to enter into an amicable settlement?
The HFOB will proceed to issue the summons or continue to hear the case depending on the stage of the proceedings.
Who may file a complaint?
Any natural person who is a real party in interest or his/her representative who has personal knowledge of the acts or omissions complained of.
Can the aggrieved party appeal?
The aggrieved party/ies may file an appeal before the Secretary of Health within 15 calendar days from receipt of the copy of the HFOB decision.
A valid appeal shall stay the execution of the decision.
What happens if the aggrieved party fails to file an appeal?
The decision becomes final and executory.
What are the illegal acts covered by the Anti-Hospital Deposit Law?
Pursuant to the Anti-Hospital Deposit Law, hospitals or medical clinics are prohibited to solicit, demand or accept any deposit or any other form of advance payment as a prerequisite for administering basic emergency care or to refuse to administer medical treatment in the following:
a.) In cases to prevent death;
b.) In cases to prevent permanent disability; and
c.) In cases of a pregnant woman when permanent injury is imminent or loss of her unborn child, or noninstitutional delivery.
Where to file a complaint for the violation of the Anti-Hospital Deposit Law?
Complaints for the violation of the Anti-Hospital Deposit Law shall be filed initially with the Health Facilities Oversight Board (HFOB) under the Health Facilities and Services Regulatory Bureau (HFSRB) of the Department of Health (DOH)
How to file an answer and other HFOB submissions?
a. Submit personally the original copy of the complaint to the HFOB; or
b. Send it through registered mail addressed to HFOB; or
c. Send it through a private courier addressed to HFOB; or
d. Send it through the official e-mail address at hfob@doh.gov.ph
What happens once the decision becomes final and executory?
The Board shall issue a duly signed and notarized Implementing Order.
How to file a complaint?
A complaint may be filed in the following ways:
a) Submitting personally two (2) copies of the complaint to the HFOB at Building 15, Department of Health, San Lazaro Compound, Rizal Avenue, Sta. Cruz, Manila; or
b) Sending two (2) copies of the complaint by registered mail to HFOB at Bulding 15, Department of Health, San Lazaro Compound, Rizal Avenue, Sta. Cruz, Manila; or
c) Sending two (2) copies of the complaint through a private courier addressed at HFOB at Building 15, Department of Health, San Lazaro Compound, Rizal Avenue, Sta. Cruz, Manila; or
d) Transmitting the complaint by official electronic mail through hfob@doh.gov.ph
Can the parties enter into an amicable settlement?
The HFOB may allow the parties to enter into an amicable settlement at any stage of the proceedings.
Can a criminal case be filed in the proper court?
Yes, the Board shall facilitate the filing of the criminal case or the complainant may directly institute the criminal proceedings in courts.
What should the respondent do once summons is served?
The respondent shall file an Answer within fifteen (15) days from receipt of the summons.
What are the requisites to file a complaint?
a) The complaint must be in writing and sworn to by the complainant containing the following details:
i. Full name and address of the complainant;
ii. Full name, address and position of the respondent;
iii. Narration of relevant and material facts which show the acts or omission relative to the violation of the Anti-Hospital Deposit Law;
iv. Evidence, if any; and
v. Verified by an affidavit
b) Dated and signed by the complainant
c) Verified by an affidavit
What is the scope of AO No. 2021-0018
The guidelines embodied in AO-No. 2021-0018 shall apply to all actions and proceedings regarding complaints against the Anti-Hospital Deposit Law
What are the contents of an Answer?
The answer shall contain the defenses, allegations, relief prayed of, and evidence of the respondent if any.
What happens if the respondent fails to file an answer?
HFOB shall render its decision based on the facts alleged in the complaint and the evidence submitted, if any
