As of 20 June 2025, the Health Technology Assessment (HTA) Council has completed the evidence appraisal on the assessment of  newborn pulse oximetry as a screening test for critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) among asymptomatic, apparently healthy newborns for possible government financing. The HTA Council hereby releases its preliminary recommendation on the said health technology for stakeholder feedback/comments from 20 June to 07 July 2025.

As a preliminary recommendation, the HTA Council positively recommends newborn pulse oximetry as a screening test for CCHD among asymptomatic, apparently healthy newborns for financing of DOH and/or PhilHealth. 

In addition to this, the HTA Council recommends that the Department of Health refer to the WHO-UNICEF  technical specifications when selecting the pulse oximeter for procurement. Finally, the HTA Council recommends pre-implementation training on the use of the health technology and on the factors that will affect the interpretation of results, particularly in setting the threshold for a positive or negative screen.

For the supporting evidence reviewed and discussed by the HTA Council, please refer to the advisory and the evidence document below.

All comments, inputs, and/or appeals on the above preliminary recommendation may be submitted until 7 July 2025 (Monday), for the consideration of the HTA Council, through email at hta@dost.gov.ph. Please use the prescribed form for appeals indicated in the official HTA Philippines website [https://hta.dost.gov.ph/appeals-2/]. Appeals not following the prescribed format, and those submitted beyond the deadline shall not be entertained.

Should you have any questions or concerns regarding the preliminary recommendation, please contact us through the same email address or via telephone call via 8-837-2071 loc 4100.