PhilHealth boosts mental health package

The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) said it is committed to addressing the holistic healthcare needs of Filipinos, particularly in mental health.

“We want to convey that even if your suffering is unseen, PhilHealth is here to provide support and care. This is in line with the priorities of President Marcos,” said Dr. Edwin M. Mercado, PhilHealth acting president and CEO.

Through PhilHealth’s Outpatient Benefits Package for Mental Health (PhilHealth Circular 2023-0018), members and dependents aged 10 and above can access services including initial assessments, follow-up consultations, diagnostic tests and psychosocial support.

The package covers conditions such as depression, psychosis, epilepsy, child and adolescent mental and behavioral disorders, dementia, and self-harm or suicide risks.

Those requiring specialized care can access interventions from psychiatrists, neurologists and psychologists. PhilHealth provides annual coverage of P9,000 for general mental health services and P16,000 for specialized care.

Members can access these benefits at accredited facilities that provide general mental health services. These facilities include rural health units, city or municipal health offices, level 1 and 2 hospitals, Department of Health Medicine Access Program-mental health access sites and stand-alone mental health clinics.