Two members of the House of Representatives have recently called upon the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (Philhealth) to enhance its insurance packages. The aim is to provide better benefits to Philhealth members and address the issue of insurance fraud within the organization.
One of the advocates for change is House Deputy Majority Leader and Iloilo 1st District Rep. Janette Garin. She believes that increasing the benefits for Philhealth members is not only feasible but necessary. Garin, who previously served as the Health Secretary, understands the importance of affordable healthcare. She created the Medical Assistance Program, which later evolved into the Malasakit Center Program, to address the limited assistance provided by Philhealth.
Garin emphasizes that the purpose of Philhealth is to alleviate the financial burden on individuals facing medical expenses. However, she expresses concern that the current system is falling short in providing substantial help. She highlights that out-of-pocket expenses for healthcare can account for up to 70 percent of the total bill. With such high costs, the assistance provided by Philhealth feels negligible. Garin believes that this issue needs to be urgently addressed to ensure that individuals truly benefit from their insurance coverage.
AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert Lee shares similar sentiments and advocates for expanded coverage for cancer and heart treatments. Currently, Philhealth provides a capped subsidy of P150,000 per treatment. Lee proposes increasing this subsidy to P600,000, allowing individuals to receive more comprehensive coverage for these critical medical conditions.
During a recent meeting at the House of Representatives, Philhealth President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. informed Speaker Martin Romualdez about the organization’s plans to enhance its benefit packages. Ledesma revealed that a 30 percent increase in coverage rate had already commenced on February 14th.
The calls from these House Representatives shed light on the pressing need for improved insurance packages within Philhealth. By advocating for higher subsidies and increased coverage, they aim to alleviate the financial burden on individuals facing serious medical conditions. Furthermore, addressing insurance fraud within the organization is crucial to ensure that funds are allocated appropriately and reach those who truly need assistance.
It is important to note that the suggestions put forth by these representatives are in line with the goal of providing affordable healthcare to all Filipinos. However, implementing these changes requires careful consideration of various factors, including financial sustainability and the ability to meet the growing demand for healthcare services.
In conclusion, the House of Representatives is urging Philhealth to enhance its insurance packages to better support its members. Representatives Garin and Lee emphasize the need for increased benefits, expanded coverage for critical treatments, and the prevention of insurance fraud. These proposed changes aim to provide more substantial assistance to individuals facing medical expenses and ensure that Philhealth fulfills its mission of providing affordable healthcare to all Filipinos. As Philhealth moves forward with its plans to improve benefit packages, it is essential to strike a balance between meeting the needs of its members and maintaining the organization’s financial stability.
Source: The Manila Times
