Featured Research
Health Systems
Health workforce issues and recommended practices in the implementation of Universal Health Coverage in the Philippines: a qualitative study.
The Philippines' Universal Health Coverage program faces a critical workforce crisis that threatens its very foundation. A new Ateneo de Manila University study reveals that while the country exports healthcare workers globally, it struggles to retain the professionals needed for its own ambitious health reforms. With only 7.92 physicians per 10,000 population and a shortage of 127,000 nurses, systemic barriers—from restrictive hiring policies to uncompetitive salaries—are driving away the very people meant to deliver healthcare for all Filipinos. The research identifies promising solutions, including scholarship programs and comprehensive benefits, but warns that without addressing these fundamental workforce issues, universal healthcare remains at risk.
Environmental Health
Implementation Review of the Philippine National Action Plan (PNAP) to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) through One Health Approach 2019-2023 and the Development of a New Medium-Term AMR Action Plan for 2024-2028
ACRI together with the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Agriculture (DA), World Health Organization (WHO), and the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), played a central role in developing the Philippines’ 2024–2028 National Action Plan to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). Building on the 2019–2023 plan, this new roadmap strengthens the country’s One Health approach—integrating human, animal, plant, environmental, and economic sectors—to curb the growing threat of AMR. With its research and technical expertise, ACRI contributed to ensuring that the plan is evidence-based, actionable, and sustainable, setting the direction for coordinated national efforts against one of the most urgent global health challenges.
Innovation
ASMPH PCHRD HeartNovation Hub Project
The HeartNovation Hub (HHub) at the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health is set to become the University’s center for health innovation. Funded by the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD), the Hub will accelerate health technologies, strengthen partnerships with industry, and build a culture of innovation through training, mentorship, and research. By bridging the gap between ideas and practice, the Hub positions ASMPH as a pioneer in developing solutions that can transform health care in the Philippines.
Health Systems
Measuring and Understanding Geographic Inequities in Physician Distribution in the Philippines
Access to quality health care in the Philippines is shaped not only by the availability of physicians, but also by how equitably they are distributed across regions. Many communities, particularly in rural and geographically isolated areas, continue to face limited access to medical professionals, while urban centers often see a concentration of physicians and specialists. The project Measuring and Understanding Geographic Inequities in Physician Distribution in the Philippines seeks to address this challenge by providing a clear, evidence-based picture of physician maldistribution nationwide.
Mental Health
Development of the mhGAP Clinical and Administrative Support and Supervision Protocol for the Philippines
The Development of the mhGAP Clinical and Administrative Support and Supervision Protocol for the Philippines is an ongoing project that provides technical assistance to strengthen the country’s mental health workforce. The initiative is grounded in the WHO Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP) framework, which supports the integration of mental health into primary care and other community-based health services.
Portfolios
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Mental Health
On the promotion of mental well-being, the increasing prevalence of poor mental health, the perceptions around mental health, and the access to appropriate services and resources
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Environmental Health
On emerging environmental health issues such as sanitation, waste management, and health risks, and policies surrounding essential environmental health services
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Medical Education
On methods and strategies to effectively delivery essential medical and public health knowledge to students, trainees, and professionals
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Medical Device
On technological innovations that can impact individuals and communities at the primary to the tertiary levels of care
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Neuro-developmental Disorders
On services, new evidence, and interventions for individuals with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders
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Digital Health
On the use of digital methods to improve health data management, service delivery, and health promotion
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Health Systems
On policies, processes, and interventions that impact our complex health system in order to achieve collective health goals
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Special Topics
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Innovation
dedicated to advancing health innovation in the Philippines. It serves as a platform where research, technology, and collaboration come together to create solutions that address pressing health challenges.
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