Medical boards to proceed in September only in GCQ, MGCQ areas

The board examinations for doctors slated in September will be conducted only in areas under general community quarantine and modified community quarantine.

According to Resolution No. 62 of the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases, the licensure examinations for physicians will be held from September 19 to 21 in GCQ and MGCQ areas.

"Strict health protocols as may be approved by the Department of Health shall be observed," read the resolution signed by chairperson Health Secretary Francisco Duque III and co-chair Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles.

"Agencies are directed to render full assistance for the safe and successful conduct of the examinations.

The resumption of the qualifying assessment of foreign medical professionals tentatively scheduled on September 19 was also approved.

Like the licensure exams, it will only be held in GCQ and MGCQ areas.

Metro Manila and nearby provinces were reverted to modified enhanced community quarantine or MECQ following the alarming rise of COVID-19 cases after they were placed under the more relaxed GCQ.

Doctors' groups in late July called for a two-week ECQ to stem the influx of COVID-19 cases in the hospitals which were in danger of getting overwhelmed.

Duterte placed Metro Manila and some hot spot areas under an MECQ which is in effect until August 18. 

A team of experts from the University of the Philippines have asked for a two-extension of the MECQ. They said the number of cases had continued to increase.

The board examinations for doctors scheduled in March were scuttled as part of the measures to control the spread of COVID-19. -NB, GMA News