CHED greenlights next steps for Doctor of Medicine proposal, awaits final revisions in November

October 2, 2024 – The Commission on Higher Education (CHED), through its Technical Panel, commended the university's efforts and deemed most of the documents for the School of Medicine (SOM) as compliant, following a thorough evaluation of its proposal to establish a Doctor of Medicine program. Lead Technical Panelist Dr. Manuel Dayrit noted during the exit conference that only minor compliance requirements remain, which are expected to be addressed and submitted with the revised proposal by November.

Twelve assessment areas were carefully reviewed by the panel during the visit, which included inspections of the university’s laboratories, smart classrooms, its community partner in Abilan, Buenavista, and the SOM’s proposed allied hospitals within Butuan City.

The revised proposal, to be submitted in November, will be presented to the technical evaluators and the CHED Commission En Banc, the body responsible for final approval. The formal launch of the Doctor of Medicine program will hinge on their decision.

University President Dr. Rolyn Daguil expressed his appreciation for the Technical Panel’s recommendations, which will help the university meet the requirements to establish the region’s first public medical school. He highlighted that the program’s approval will address the shortage of healthcare professionals in the Caraga region and create opportunities for Caraganons to receive free, high-quality medical education from practicing physicians who will also serve as faculty.

This initiative is aligned with the mandate set forth in Republic Act 9854, signed by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on December 16, 2009. Congressman Jose "Joboy" S. Aquino II, who filed the bill in Congress, played a critical role in securing the legislative backing for the university’s expansion into medical education.

Under RA 9854, Caraga State University (CSU) is tasked with offering a Doctor of Medicine program, addressing the healthcare needs of the region. The establishment of the medical school reflects CSU’s commitment to fulfilling this mandate and its role in providing accessible medical education, crucial to solving the shortage of healthcare professionals in Caraga.

To do this, Dr. Daguil has spearheaded the initiative, implementing various output-driven strategies to meet CHED requirements. His efforts are bolstered by a strong leadership team: Dr. Michelle V. Japitana, Vice President for Executive Operations; Alexander T. Demetillo, Vice President for Administration and Finance; and Dr. Teresita Brion, Dean of the School of Medicine, who serve as Committee Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and Sub-committee for Medical Education Leader, respectively.

Crucially, the university has garnered significant support from local executives, the Department of Health, and affiliate hospitals in Butuan City. The Department of Health-Caraga has procured examining tables to augment the Skills Lab of the University. Congressman Jose "Joboy" S. Aquino II has been a key advocate, providing vital endorsement and budgetary provisions that enabled the university to meet CHED requirements. Congressman Aquino's support has been instrumental in funding the construction of the School of Medicine's academic building.