PhilHealth to cut out-of-pocket healthcare costs

PhilHealth is set to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses for its members within the next three years by expanding its coverage, including outpatient drugs.

PhilHealth President and CEO Edwin Mercado highlighted that Filipinos currently shoulder about 45 percent of total healthcare expenses, which include outpatient medication, hospitalization, and preventive care.

To manage its funds efficiently, PhilHealth has scaled down events, including limiting its anniversary celebration to a Mass and simultaneous flag ceremonies, according to Israel Vargas, senior vice president of the health finance policy sector.

This initiative is part of PhilHealth's efforts to retain and support its members by expanding benefits despite budget constraints.