ABSTRACT
This study assessed the procurement processes of the Department of Health – Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH-WV CHD) in terms of efficiency and transparency, and examined their impact on the attainment of the agency’s strategic outcomes. A descriptive research design was utilized, with data collected via a researcher-made questionnaire from 60 respondents involved in procurement-related functions. Findings revealed that procurement efficiency was generally high while there is minor delay in execution of completion phases. In terms of procurement transparency, all indicators were rated “excellent” which reflected a highly transparent procurement system. Regarding strategic outcomes, achievement of health program targets was also rated “excellent”; while timeliness of program implementation, budget utilization, and quality of procured goods and services were rated “very satisfactory”. Overall, the findings showed that efficient and transparent procurement processes contribute positively to the attainment of strategic objectives. However, improvements are needed in post procurement activities.
Keywords: Procurement Processes, Government Health Service Agency, Strategic Outcome
INTRODUCTION
Public procurement plays a vital role in government service delivery, particularly in the health sector where timely and transparent acquisition of goods and services directly affects population health outcomes. In the Philippines, the Department of Health (DOH) is mandated to ensure equitable access to quality health services, supported by effective governance mechanisms including procurement systems.
The Department of Health – Western Visayas Center for Health Development (DOH WV CHD) implements various health programs and projects aligned with national and regional strategic objectives. The efficiency and transparency of its procurement processes are critical to the successful execution of these programs, especially in ensuring timely delivery of medicines, medical supplies, equipment, and health-related services.
Despite the existence of Republic Act No. 9184, otherwise known as the Government Procurement Reform Act, challenges related to procurement delays, compliance issues, and transparency concerns persist across government agencies. These challenges may potentially hinder the attainment of strategic objective outcomes of DOH WV CHD.
This study assessed the level of procurement efficiency and transparency in DOH WV CHD and examines their impact on the attainment of its strategic objective outcomes.
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