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Obtaining the DOH Nurse Certification Program could be the perfect opportunity if you’re a nurse looking to enhance your skills and career prospects. This training program for nurses in the Philippines certifies your competency in various specializations in your field. Whether aiming to advance in your current role or exploring new opportunities, earning this certification equips you with the expertise and recognition to boost your career.

If you’re interested in applying to the program, we’ll discuss the steps and requirements for obtaining a certificate successfully.

What is the DOH Nurse Certification Program?

The Nurse Certification Program (NCP) is a Department of Health (DOH) initiative to help nurses enhance their skills and qualifications. The program focuses on different specializations, so nurses can choose which area to get certified in. Note that the initiative isn’t a specialization program. It will only certify your competency as a nurse and your abilities in the workplace.

Currently, only ten specialty hospitals, including the National Children’s Hospital, serve as providers and assessment centers for the program. However, the DOH plans to expand the program to other regional medical institutions.

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What specialties are included in the nursing training?

This training program offers eleven specialties for nurses in the Philippines, such as:

• Cardiovascular Nursing
• Renal Nursing
• Pediatric Nursing
• Mental Health Nursing
• Maternal and Child Health Nursing
• Infectious Disease Nursing
• Orthopedic and Rehabilitation Nursing
• Trauma and Emergency Nursing
• Operating Room Nursing
• Anesthesia Care Nursing

The competency assessment will be conducted in different hospitals, depending on the specialty. For instance, Maternal and Child Nursing will be held at the Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, Infectious Disease Nursing at the San Lazaro Hospital, and Orthopedic and Rehabilitation Nursing at the Philippine Orthopedic Center. Make sure to coordinate with the staff for the appropriate location of your assessment.

How can a DOH Nurse Certification advance your career?

Obtaining a DOH Nurse Certification can help boost your career by:

• Increased Employability: Some healthcare facilities prioritize this qualification for nurses. Being certified opens doors to more job opportunities.
• Proof of Competency: DOH nurse certification formally recognizes your skills and knowledge. It proves to employers and regulatory bodies that you meet established standards of nursing care and healthcare practices. This assurance of competency boosts trust in your abilities, making you a more attractive candidate for higher roles in healthcare.
• Career Advancement: DOH certification is often required for leadership or specialized roles in nursing. It can help you move into supervisory, managerial, or more advanced clinical roles.

How can you apply for the DOH Nurse Certification Program?

If you’re interested in enrolling in the program, here are the eligibility and documentary requirements you need to complete:

Eligibility Requirement

The DOH Nurse Certification Program is open to all registered Filipino nurses. Foreign nurses with Special Temporary Permits from the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC) may also apply for the program.

Documentary Requirements

• Applicant’s Information Form
• Self-Assessment Tool (Levels 3, 4, or 5)
• Portfolio of evidence for each competency

You can download the Applicant’s Information Form and Self-Assessment Tool from the NCH website.

Fees

• You’ll need to pay a non-refundable ₱1,000 fee for the assessment process.

Steps for Application

• Submit your documentary requirements to the NCH
• Wait for the NCH to notify you about your competency assessment schedule
• Attend the competency assessment on your scheduled appointment
• Wait for the NCH to release your assessment results
• If the NCH deems you competent, wait for the certificate of competence to be awarded. If you didn’t pass the assessment, consider enrolling in the Learning Development Intervention as suggested by the assessor
• Remember to pay the NCP assessment fee at the cashier if you successfully pass the process

What is the Learning Development Intervention (LDI)?

The Learning Development Intervention (LDI) is a supplementary training program for nurses in the Philippines to improve their skills and knowledge. You may use it to solidify your training and improve your chances of passing the Nurse Certification Program.

On the other hand, nurses who were not deemed “Competent” during the certification assessment may apply for the program as recommended by their assessor. Once they complete the LDI, they’re subject to reassessment to receive their certification.

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How can you enroll in the Learning Development Intervention?

If you want to enroll in the LDI, here are the requirements you need to accomplish:

Eligibility Requirements

• All registered nurses can enroll in the program

Documentary Requirements

• Recommendation of the NCP Assessors (if applicable)
• Accomplished pre-registration form
• Official receipt for the LDI fee (if applicable)

A Nursing Development and Training Office (NDTO) will provide a Google Form link for the pre-registration form. Furthermore, if you’re enrolling in the program to qualify for re-assessment, you no longer need to pay the LDI fee.

Steps for Enrollment

• Coordinate with an NDTO staff that you’ll avail of the LDI program
• The staff will provide you with the list of requirements you’ll need for the program
• Pay the LDI fee
• Attend the LDI and take the pre-test examination
• Take the post-examination and accomplish the post-training evaluation tool
• Receive your certificate of completion

Tips for a Successful Application

Here are some tips to help improve your chances of a successful application:

• For the Self-Assessment Tool, ensure you can fully demonstrate the competency you’ll mark as “Outstanding.”
• Have your immediate supervisor validate your Self-Assessment Tool to prove your skills further.
• Make sure your portfolio contains solid evidence proving your skills, knowledge, and attitudes in nursing or the specialty you wish to enroll in.
• Prior work experience will greatly improve your chances of passing the workplace assessments.

Training Program for Nurses in the Philippines: FAQs

If you’re interested in enrolling in the DOH Nurse Certification Program or other nursing training initiatives, here are additional information to help you get started:

Why are training and seminars important for nurses?

Training and seminars are important for nurses since they update their skills and knowledge on the latest practices, ensuring they can deliver high-quality patient care. Additionally, regular training and seminars can aid in career advancement and specialization.

What are the qualifications of an RN in the Philippines?

Aside from graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, you also need to pass the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) licensure exam to become a Registered Nurse in the Philippines.

How many CPD units for nurses in the Philippines?

Registered nurses are required to obtain Continuing Professional Development (CPD) units to renew their licenses in the Philippines. As of writing, nurses are required to earn 15 CPD units every three years.

How to earn CPD units for nurses in the Philippines?

You can earn CPD units by participating in accredited training and seminars for nurses. Universities, professional organizations, and healthcare facilities offer them annually. You can also check PRC’s Continuing Professional Development Accreditation System (CPDAS) for upcoming seminars and workshops for your field.

Sources: (1), (2), (3), (4), (5)

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