By Marie Joy S. Carbungco
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga (PIA) — The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has announced major expansion of benefit packages, providing enhanced financial protection and improved access to healthcare services for 13 million residents in Central Luzon.
During the first episode of the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas of the Philippine Information Agency for 2025, PhilHealth Regional Office III Acting Vice President Henry Almanon said these updates aim to strengthen the Universal Health Care program and ensure better medical assistance for Filipinos.
Among the most significant updates is the 144 percent increase in hemodialysis coverage, which now provides P6,350 per session for up to 156 sessions per year, to aid patients suffering from kidney disease.
The Kidney Transplantation Z Package has also been expanded by 44 percent to 249 percent, increasing financial assistance from P865,000 to P2,093,000 to support patients undergoing life-saving transplant procedures.
In addition, coverage for severe dengue hemorrhagic fever has increased by 194 percent, while support for acute myocardial infarction, or heart attack, has expanded from P21,900 to P523,853.
“These improvements are designed to ensure that residents in Central Luzon receive adequate support in managing chronic illnesses. Our goal is to make sure that no Filipino is burdened with high medical expenses,” Almanon said.
PhilHealth has also expanded its outpatient services, focusing on preventive healthcare to reduce hospitalizations.
The enhancements include full coverage for outpatient emergency care, allowing members to access immediate medical attention without worrying about costs.
Preventive dental care has also been expanded under the Konsulta Program, covering oral exams, cleaning, fluoride varnish, and sealants to improve dental health among Filipinos.
Pediatric optometric services have also been introduced, providing vision assessments and prescription glasses for children aged 0 to 15 years, ensuring that young Filipinos receive early intervention for vision problems.
“Our goal is to detect health issues early and provide immediate intervention. This way, Central Luzon residents can stay healthier and avoid unnecessary hospital stays,” Almanon added.
He also mentioned that in response to increasing cases of cancer, the corporation has expanded its chemotherapy coverage for patients battling lung, liver, ovarian, and prostate cancer.
The agency has also introduced the Z Benefit Package, covering heart valve surgery, open-heart surgeries, and treatment for children with disabilities. (CLJD/MJSC, PIA Region 3-Pampanga)
