APPLYING THE PDCA CYCLE TO OPTIMIZE MAINTENANCE PROCESSES AT ILOCOS TRAINING AND REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER (ITRMC)'S ENGINEERING UNIT

Maintenance reliability in healthcare infrastructure ensures patient safety, operational efficiency, and compliance with quality standards. This study examines the application of the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) cycle as a strategic framework to address recurring maintenance challenges at the Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center (ITRMC), focusing specifically on its Engineering Unit. Utilizing a qualitative case study design, data were collected through direct observations, document analysis, and semi-structured interviews with key personnel. The findings highlight a successful transition from a reactive maintenance approach to a proactive, data-driven system anchored in the PDCA methodology. Implementation of the cycle led to improved resource allocation, reduced service disruptions, and the institutionalization of preventive maintenance practices. Moreover, the initiative fostered a culture of continuous quality improvement within the organization. This research offers practical, evidence-based insights for other resource-constrained public healthcare institutions aiming to optimize infrastructure management and service reliability. Keywords: Continuous Improvement, Healthcare Infrastructure, Hospital Engineering, Maintenance Management,PDCA Cycle, Preventive Maintenance