Hospital rates set to rise as inflation hits medical sector

Hospitalization costs in private healthcare facilities are expected to increase by 5 to 15 percent, the Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines Inc. (PHAPi) announced.

In an interview, PHAPi president Dr. Jose Rene de Grano said the price hikes are driven by inflation, affecting medical supplies, equipment, and medicines, as well as higher wages for healthcare workers.

He said the increases will cover room rates, laboratory fees, and other services.

"Because of the ingredients we use in the laboratory and the equipment we use in the laboratories, prices for those have increased," he continued.

De Grano noted that larger hospitals — categorized as Level Two and Level Three facilities — may see increases of more than 20 percent. These hospitals typically offer more advanced diagnostic services and specialized care units like intensive care.

Despite the looming price hikes, De Grano said patients may not feel the full impact due to expanded coverage from the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth).

According to De Grano, PhilHealth benefits have almost doubled this year, increasing by about 95 percent.

"For example, your bill is P50,000, and P20,000 was covered by PhilHealth. Now it has increased to P70,000, but PhilHealth coverage also increased by P30,000 to P35,000," he said.

"This means you will only gradually or almost not feel that there is an increase," he added.

There are around 1,200 private hospitals in the Philippines, with roughly half affiliated with PHAPi.