What legislation governs licensure and regulation for clinical laboratories in the Philippines?

The legislative measure that governs licensure and regulation for clinical laboratories in the Philippines is known as Republic Act No. 4688, often referred to as the "Clinical Laboratory Law." This act was enacted to ensure that clinical laboratories operate in accordance with established standards for quality and safety. It mandates the registration, licensing, and regulation of clinical laboratories, thus promoting the effective delivery of laboratory services throughout the country.

Under RA 4688, the government sets out the requirements for laboratories, including staffing, equipment, and operational standards to ensure that diagnostic services are reliable and performed competently. This legislation is crucial for maintaining public health and safety as it establishes the framework within which clinical laboratories must function, thereby safeguarding the welfare of patients who rely on accurate laboratory diagnostics.

Other legislative acts mentioned do not specifically address clinical laboratory regulation. For example, RA 7719 pertains to the National Blood Services, RA 1517 focuses on the control of communicable diseases, and RA 8504 is associated with the prevention and control of HIV/AIDS. While these laws are important in their respective fields, they do not cover the licensure and regulation of clinical laboratories as comprehensively as RA 4688.