History of CLDHEI: A Journey of Growth and Expansion
Central Luzon Doctors’ Hospital Educational Institution is a non-sectarian academic institution founded in 1976 by a group of physicians led by Dr. Constante D. Quirino. CLDHEI was intended originality as a school of higher learning for nursing and allied medical courses but was later expanded to include basic education and, at one time, included TESDA-affiliated technical-vocational courses.
Inaugural Programs and Recognition
Originally known as CLDH School of Nursing, CLDHEI’s inaugural academic program was a three-year Graduate Nurse course, subsequently followed by a two-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing Supplemental Course. In 1985, the institution received official government recognition for its four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. This achievement was soon followed by the introduction of other programs such as Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy, Associate in Radiologic Technology, Midwifery, and Nursing Aide (later renamed Health Care Services NC II), which significantly broadened the school’s academic offerings. Expanding its scope even further, the Commission on Higher Education granted permits for the establishment of Bachelor of Science in Respiratory Therapy and Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology programs just two years later.
Expanding Horizons
As the institution continued its trajectory of academic and infrastructural growth to better cater to a burgeoning student body, it ventured into additional healthcare-related courses. In 1998, the Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology and Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy programs were introduced, thus presenting students with a more diversified array of educational paths. To elevate the standards of healthcare education, the Graduate School was founded, offering the Master of Science in Nursing as a prominent course.
Infrastructure Development and Modernization
Responding to the escalating demand for healthcare education, the need for more classrooms and associated facilities became evident. This impetus led to the construction of a new campus in San Pablo, Tarlac City in 2003. This modernized school complex not only provided ample space for the growing student population but also featured enhanced teaching facilities, including spacious air-conditioned classrooms, fully-equipped laboratories, a contemporary multimedia library, sports amenities, and a gymnasium.
Commitment to Excellence
The institution’s unwavering commitment to its students remains steadfast. It is perpetually engaged in efforts to upgrade its facilities and attract highly qualified faculty members. As part of its vision for the future, the institution aspires to achieve program accreditations and ultimately attain university status.
Expansion to Basic Education
On June 10, 2018, the Basic Education Department, encompassing the Pre-Elementary and Secondary Levels, was formally inaugurated. Government Recognition No. E-073, series 2008, granted by DECS Order no. 23, Series 1984, along with DepEd Order No. 1, series 2003, marked the recognition of CLDHEI for the Pre-Elementary Course, effective from 2008 to 2009. Furthermore, Government Recognition No. E-023, series of 2009, was conferred for the Elementary Course.
This milestone was succeeded by the acquisition of Government Permit No. S-052, series of 2010, allowing the operation of the First to Third Year Levels of the Secondary Course (junior high school). Subsequently, Government Recognition No. S-006, series of 2012, was granted during the SY 2011-2012 for the entire Secondary course spanning from the first year to the fourth year.
Pioneering Senior High School Program
With the enactment of Republic Act No. 10533, the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013, in April 2013, CLDHEI sought to introduce a Senior High School program. This initiative bore fruit on October 5, 2015, as the school secured a permit to launch Grade 11 and Grade 12 programs, offering three distinct strands: Accountancy, Business and Management (ABM); Humanities and Social Sciences (HUMSS); and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), effective from SY 2016-2017. The pioneering cohort of Grade 12 graduates successfully completed their senior high school journey in 2018.
Forward-Looking Commitment
CLDHEI remains dedicated to its community and neighboring regions, providing quality education that nurtures the holistic development of learners as global citizens. This commitment to excellence and growth continues to shape the institution’s journey.