Photo credit: Senator Bong Go

Senator Bong Go is stepping up the pressure on PhilHealth to scrap its controversial "single confinement period" policy, which he argues is both unfair and illogical. On August 27, Go took to the Senate to challenge the insurance giant, highlighting the policy’s flawed approach to patient coverage.

The "single confinement period" policy means that if you’re admitted and readmitted for the same illness or procedure within a certain timeframe, PhilHealth will only compensate the first admission. This rule, Go insists, is unjust given PhilHealth's financial standing.

“I’ve brought this issue up before, and I want to make it clear again: this policy doesn’t make sense and doesn’t align with the needs of the Filipino people,” Go stated, emphasizing his frustration during a recent Senate hearing on health matters.

PhilHealth President Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. acknowledged the policy’s shortcomings during a public hearing on August 20. He admitted that there may be a “flaw” in the system and committed to reviewing the policy.

Go, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, shared real-life examples of how this policy impacts patients. He cited cases like pregnancy complications, diarrhea, and pneumonia, where individuals have been denied benefits because they were re-admitted for the same illness.

“This policy is basically a ‘no-repeat sakit’ rule,” Go said. “It’s high time we address this.”

Senator Go has called for a clear timeline on when PhilHealth will review and potentially revise the policy. He’s also urged Senate leadership to ensure that PhilHealth meets its promises and delivers on its commitments to the public.

“PhilHealth has made numerous promises to our people. As their representative, it’s my job to make sure they keep those promises,” Go concluded, pledging to keep a close eye on the situation.

With this strong stance, Go is pushing for changes that could ensure better and more equitable access to health benefits for all Filipinos.