Romualdez calls for review of PhilHealth charter

Speaker Martin Romualdez on Tuesday called for a congressional review of the charter of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to expand the coverage of benefits for its members. 

Romualdez, in a statement, said he has tasked the House health panel with conducting a review of PhilHealth’s charter so that PhilHealth can at least cover 50% of the cost of treatment in private hospitals, as well as provide free medical examinations for the detection of deadly diseases such as cancer.

Romualdez said PhilHealth should be able to cover the cost of diagnostic exams that detect lung cancer (x-rays), mammography for breast cancer, and the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to prevent cervical cancer, among others.

“PhilHealth should function akin to a health maintenance organization (HMO), focusing its resources on safeguarding the health of the populace rather than investing in commercial banks and bonds. With substantial annual allocations from Congress and regular contributions from private employees, there is no excuse for PhilHealth to scrimp on coverage,” Romualdez said.

“The effectiveness of the Universal Health Care System depends on our ability to provide for our citizens, ensuring they receive the medical attention and preventive care they deserve," he added.

The congressional review, Romualdez said, ensures that PhilHealth's operations align with the best interests of the people.

The House will also evaluate PhilHealth's investment strategies to ensure that funds are utilized in ways that directly benefit Filipino people.

“This review underscores the government's dedication to strengthening the healthcare system, making it more responsive to the needs of its citizens, and ensuring that every Filipino has access to the care they need, when they need it,” Romualdez said.

The House health panel hearing on the review of the PhilHealth charter has been set for Wednesday, February 14. —VBL, GMA Integrated News