MLS106 - MT LAWS - RA 4688 (NO AMENDMENTS)

Matthew 6:34 - “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble."

What is Republic Act No. 4688?

title and general function

Clinical Laboratory Law of 1966 : it regulates the operation and maintenance of clinical laboratories in the Philippines.

( SECT. 8 )When did RA 4688 take effect?

Upon its approval on June 18, 1966.

(SECT. 1) What is required for a clinical laboratory to operate legally under RA 4688?

It must register and secure an annual license from the office of secretary of health. (or DOH)

(SECTION 2) Who is authorized to be in charge of a clinical laboratory according to RA 4688?

(SECTION 2) A licensed physician duly qualified in laboratory medicine and authorized by the Secretary of Health.

this authorization is also renewed annually

(SECTION 3) Which government body is responsible for enforcing RA 4688?

(SECTION 3) The Secretary of Health (DOH) through the Bureau of Research and Laboratories (BRL)

(SECTION 4) how much is the minimum and maximum fine for violations ?

Not less than 1k, not more than 5k

(SECTION 4) how much is the minimum and maximum imprisonment for violations ?

Not less than one month, not more than 1 year

(SECTION 4) can you be punished by both imprisonment and fine ?

yes, at the discretion of the court

(SECTION 4) What are the penalties for operating a clinical laboratory without proper authorization under RA 4688?

Imprisonment for not less than one month but not more than one year, or a fine of not less than one thousand pesos nor more than five thousand pesos, or both.

(SECT. 1) Are government hospital laboratories required to secure a license under RA 4688?

No, if they perform routine or minimum laboratory examinations as extensions of government regional or central laboratories.

(SECT. 5) What is the consequence if a section of RA 4688 is declared invalid by a court?

The judgment shall not affect, impair, or invalidate the remainder of the Act.

According to Section 6 of RA 4688, what amount is appropriated to implement the Act?

The sum of fifty thousand pesos, or as much as necessary, is authorized to be appropriated from the National Treasury to carry out the provisions of the Act.