DOLE issues guideline on cancer prevention and control in work places
The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has released guidelines on cancer prevention and control in the private sector.
In the Labor Advisory No. 20-2023 signed by DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma, all private enterprises are required to implement the policy mandated under the Republic Act (RA) 11215 or the National Integrated Cancer Control Act.
"Employers and their employees shall adopt a Cancer Prevention and Control in the Workplace Policy and Program that shall include, among others, the prevention, access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment, return to work, compensation, and social policies," said the advisory dated Sept. 15 and released Tuesday, Sept. 19.
Under the guidelines, the DOLE expects firms to promote a safe and healthy lifestyle including employees' mental and social well-being.
Aside from providing social and mental health services to various DOH Cancer Centers, the agency noted that businesses must also assist prompt referral mechanisms for screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
Firms are also urged to put in place procedures to help cancer patients return to work and reintegrate into the workforce.
DOLE assured that the Data Privacy Act will be followed in handling any medical records of concerned personnel.
Companies are also required to help employees gain access to rehabilitation and compensation in the private sector through the Employees' Compensation Commission (ECC).
The DOLE-added firms will supply information on the compensation claims procedures, as well as the additional benefits granted by the ECC. (Trixee Rosel)