Photo credit: Bong Go

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has some encouraging words for PhilHealth as the state health insurer unveils a new benefit package designed to support heart attack patients. But while he praised this development, he also called on PhilHealth to ensure it delivers all promised benefits to Filipinos.

“Sulit ang ating pangungulit pero hindi tayo titigil hanggang matupad lahat ng kanilang pangako para matupad ang mga dagdag na benepisyo na ito,” Senator Go shared, emphasizing his push for better healthcare services.

This new package addresses one of the country's top health concerns: acute myocardial infarction (AMI), commonly known as a heart attack. It includes financial support for critical procedures like percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and fibrinolysis. Here's a quick breakdown of what’s covered:

PCI: PHP 523,853

Fibrinolysis: PHP 133,500

Emergency medical services and transfers: PHP 21,900

Cardiac rehabilitation: PHP 66,140

“Magandang balita ito para sa mga Pilipino, lalo na sa mga kababayan nating hirap maka-access ng ganitong uri ng serbisyo. Pero dapat siguruhin ng PhilHealth na maayos at tuloy-tuloy ang implementasyon nito,” Go added, highlighting the importance of consistent and reliable execution of this program.

A Call for Comprehensive Coverage

While Senator Go acknowledged the efforts of PhilHealth and the Department of Health (DOH) in addressing the rise of cardiovascular diseases, he stressed the need for reforms in rural areas, where healthcare access remains a struggle.

“Huwag nating hayaang magkaroon ng gaps sa serbisyo. Hindi pwedeng mabitin ang mga pasyente na umaasa sa benepisyo ng PhilHealth,” he asserted, emphasizing the need for equity in healthcare services.

Go didn’t stop there—he listed out other commitments PhilHealth needs to fulfill, including increased case rates, expanded benefit packages, reduced premium contributions, and coverage for dental, visual, and preventive care.

“Umasa po kayo na hindi ko titigilan ang PhilHealth hangga’t hindi nila natutupad ang iba pa nilang commitments sa mga Pilipino,” the senator vowed.

Bridging the Healthcare Gap

Senator Go also pointed out the stark contrast in healthcare spending between high-income and low-income countries, citing the World Health Organization's data. He said this disparity underscores the need for continuous reforms in the Philippine healthcare sector.

"Malaki ang agwat. Kaya napakahalaga ng mga reporma sa health sector dito sa Pilipinas para mabawasan ang ganitong mga disparity," he noted.

As Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, Senator Go remains steadfast in pushing for universal healthcare, ensuring no Filipino is left behind. With PhilHealth's latest initiative, he believes the country is one step closer to achieving this goal—but insists there's still work to be done.

"Bilang lingkod-bayan, sisikapin natin na ang bawat Pilipino ay may access sa maayos na serbisyong pangkalusugan," he assured.