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MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Tourism (DOT) has issued guidelines on the accreditation process for dental clinics to participate in the promotion of the country’s medical tourism.
The DOT in a statement on Monday said the guidelines are part of its Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 2024-0001, which describes dental tourism as a “high-value tourism product worthy of investment and promotion” under its “Health and Wellness Program.”
Under the document, dental tourism accreditation is voluntary and must meet the following minimum requirements:
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The clinic must be clean and at a safe and secure location with natural ventilation for the comfort of patients and staff. It should also bear visible name signage, with a clean and functional restroom conveniently accessible. A clinic concierge shall also provide in-house medical services of at least four of the following dental procedures including cosmetic dentistry, dental implantology, orthodontics, endodontics, and prosthodontics.
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The reception area must be manned by clinic personnel, with sufficient lighting, seating facilities, internet access, IEC, and other entertainment materials and equipment.
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Tourist information or electronic access to the Philippines Travel App must also be made available at the reception area, as well as drinking water, coffee, or tea amenities.
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Dental facilities like treatment area, instruments, and equipment as well as emergency care and personnel must be present, showing valid credentials within the premises, accepts different modes of payment, have an official email and website or social media containing clinic profile, operation hours, services offered, dental tour packages, online appointment system, online consultation, and online review and customer feedback.
The DOT said the guidelines aim to reinforce the department’s regulatory power to a “national standard for licensing, accreditation and classification of tourism enterprises, prescribing therein minimum levels of operating quality and efficiency for their operation in accordance with recognized international standards, and impose reasonable penalties for violation of accreditation policies.”
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“Accreditation ensures quality, safety, and [the] adherence to international standards, fostering trust among both local and international patients. Not only that, [accreditation] assures your clients that there is a stamp of approval and confidence from your very own government,” Tourism Sec. Christina Frasco said.
Clinics wishing to get accredited may submit the following documentary requirements through the DOT Online Accreditation system:
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Valid business/ Mayor’s permit
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List of dentist/s with PRC registration number validity
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Proof of ownership of autoclave and dental x-ray
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Copy of Preventive Maintenance Report from the Supplier of the maintenance of the autoclave and dental x-ray
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Certificate of membership with PDA
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Copy of DOH license for clinics with laboratories
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Customer Service Training Certificate for reception personnel upon renewal of accreditation
The said memorandum also included dental tour packages, offering various dental procedures and other services such as hotel lodging, transportation, sightseeing, and other leisure activities.
According to Frasco, pairing the country’s quality dental services with tourism would help further promote the country as an attractive tourism destination.
“I am but one of the millions of Filipinos and our friends from all over the world who have benefited from the care and professionalism and expertise of our dentists, dental hygienists, and dental technologists who have shown nothing less than excellence, making us so proud of your profession,” Frasco said.
“The Philippines is renowned for its rich natural landscapes being one of the most megabiodiverse countries in the world. Not only that, we have as well a culture and heritage, diverse identities across our regions that make up the social fabric and the story that is the Filipino,” she added.
Citing the Global Wellness Institute Top Line data for the Philippines from 2019 to 2022, the DOT said the country ranked 8th in the Wellness Economy regional ranking and 20th in the Wellness Economy Global ranking.
A 2019 study also identified the Philippines is ranked seventh among countries that provide low-cost dental procedures worldwide.