Effective healthcare policy formulation at the barangay level is essential for addressing local
health challenges and promoting community well-being. However, many Local Government Units in the Philippines continue to face issues related to inclusivity, efficiency, and implementation gaps in
the policy-making process.
This study aimed to assess the processes, challenges, and effectiveness of barangay healthcare policy formulation in four selected barangays in Manila-Brgy. 635 (Sta. Mesa), and Brgys. 410, 418, and 420 (Sampaloc)-to identify strengths, gaps, and areas for improvement that
may inform evidence-based and sustainable local healthcare policies.
A descriptive quantitative research design was utilized, employing a structured survey questionnaire to gather data from barangay officials and healthcare workers. The instrument evaluated three main dimensions of policy formulation: process, challenges, and effectiveness.
Weighted mean, ranking, and composite grand means were used to analyze the data.
Findings revealed that the overall process, challenges, and effectiveness of policy formulation
were rated as \"Often\" (Composite Grand Means = 4.12, 4.08, and 3.97, respectively). Stakeholder
involvement emerged as the strongest process indicator, reflecting high participation levels, while
consultation and dialogue ranked lowest, underscoring the need for improved communication strategies. Community engagement was identified as the top challenge, followed by political interference, while limited resources ranked lowest. Regarding effectiveness, accountability and transparency scored highest, indicating robust governance mechanisms, whereas the impact on community well-being was least rated, suggesting limited translation of policies into tangible health
outcomes.
The study concludes that while stakeholder involvement and governance transparency are strengths, there remains a pressing need to enhance community engagement and improve the
translation of policy initiatives into measurable health benefits. Strengthening consultation
mechanisms, promoting inclusive participation, and ensuring effective policy implementation are
recommended to foster sustainable healthcare outcomes at the barangay level.