PhilHealth assures coverage for heat-related illnesses

The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has assured members that heat-related illnesses are covered under its health benefits amid growing concerns over the potential effects of Super El Niño.

“PhilHealth is stepping up health protection against extreme heat and heat-related illnesses, heeding President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for proactive government action on climate change,” the state insurer said.

PhilHealth encouraged families to register with their preferred Yaman Para sa Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) clinic and avail themselves of preventive and primary care services.

The program aims to help members manage health risks associated with extreme heat, including heat stroke, dehydration, asthma, hypertension, dengue and waterborne infections.

The initiative comes amid warnings from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) that a strong El Niño phenomenon could persist until mid-2027.

Under YAKAP, members may access medical consultations, appropriate laboratory and diagnostic tests, and outpatient cancer screening.

Eligible members may also receive up to P20,000 worth of essential outpatient medicines annually.

PhilHealth stressed that regular medical checkups can help detect and manage conditions that may worsen during extreme heat, particularly hypertension, diabetes and respiratory illnesses.

The state insurer also reminded members that it provides outpatient and inpatient benefits for qualifying conditions.

For severe illnesses requiring hospitalization, PhilHealth pays fixed case rates directly to accredited hospitals.