During a visit to the Integrated Provincial Hospital Office (IPHO) in Maguindanao, Department of Health (DOH) secretary Paulyn Jean Rossel-Ubial shared that impoverished Filipinos no longer need to worry about how to pay for their hospital and medicines because, in 2017, the DOH will be shouldering these expenses.
“There’s no need to hold any card of PhilHealth, just prove to us you are a Filipino, you are entitled to be covered by health benefits, the PhilHealth will take care of the hospital billings and other concerns,” said Secretary Ubial, crediting that the increase of funds given by the Budget department for the DOH’s ability to offer free hospitalization and medicine this coming year.
photo: Google
Free medicine will also be available in 2017
According to a GMA News report, last November, the DOH received the arrears of 32 Billion of the 42 Billion pesos Philhealth still owes them.
“This the is first time in [DOH] history … President Duterte has exerted all efforts and expect changes in the next days … poor patients will leave hospitals with no billings balance,” Ubial continued. She also revealed that free medicine will be made available with the help of other government agencies, such as the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).
photo: dreamstime
She also shared how President Duterte assured her that he will take care of the money so long as she “cares for the poor”.
The DOH chief was in Maguindanao as a special guest at the inauguration of the Integrated Provincial Health Office (IPHO)-Maguindanao’s first ever CT scan machine.
READ: DOH: Free maintenance medication for hypertension and diabetes starting 2016
Be sure to check out theAsianparent Community for more insightful stories, questions, and answers from parents and experts alike. If you have any insights, questions or comments regarding the topic, please share them in our Comment box below. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Google+ to stay up-to-date on the latest from theAsianparent.com Philippines!
Money Tips
Building a BakuNation
Becoming a Parent
Ages & Stages
Parenting
Health & Wellness
Education
Lifestyle Section
Become a VIP
Press Room
TAP Recommends
Community
Rewards
