P282M worth of compensation for health workers processed so far —DOH

The Department of Health (DOH) has so far processed over P282 million in compensation for healthcare workers who tested positive for COVID-19 and those who succumbed to the disease while in the line of duty.

In a statement, the DOH said the P282 million covers at least 21,800 sickness and death compensation claims this 2022.

The agency and the Department of Budget and Management issued a joint circular on the release of P1.08 billion with a coverage period from January 1, 2022 until the state of public health emergency in the country is lifted.

According to the DOH, P15,000 will be given to those with mild to moderate COVID-19 symptoms while P100,000 will be for severe and critical cases.

Meanwhile, P1 million will be given as compensation for the legal heirs of those who succumbed to the disease while in the line of duty.

The Health Department assured the public it is working closely with the DBM to release the funds for the payment of the 2022 and 2021 compensation claims.

“Our pandemic response would not be possible without the healing hands and loving hearts of our healthcare workers and support staff who dedicated their all for every Juan and Juana throughout these trying times of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said.

“By giving them the benefits they deserve, we hope to solidify our gratitude in addition to the pride and honor we have for them all the time,” he added.

Eligible health workers

Eligible healthcare workers include medical and health allied personnel who provide direct health care to patients, as well as technical, administrative, and support staff within the health facilities.

The DOH said they may be regular, temporary, coterminous, contractual, casual positions, or on a full-time or part-time basis.

Also included are clinical consultants, resident physicians, fellows in training, duly accredited volunteer workers, including but not limited to swabbers, vaccinators, encoders, bar coders, contact tracers, and ambulance drivers, as well as Barangay Health Emergency Response Team members and barangay health workers provided they are assigned to health facilities or health-related establishments.

The DOH advised those who wish to apply to approach the head of their respective office and health facility. They are also urged to provide a working email address where all official communication and notices regarding the claim will be sent.

According to the DOH, claimants may call 1551 (toll-free within NCR) or 09177877343 (standard rates apply) for any questions or concerns. —Joahna Lei Casilao/KBK, GMA News