PhilHealth expands Konsulta package

May 31 ------ FILIPINOS now have access to more comprehensive health care services through the expanded Konsulta benefit package, according to Dr. Israel Francis Pargas, senior vice president of the Health Finance Policy Sector of PhilHealth. In an interview, Pargas highlighted the agency's recent upgrades to health benefits, emphasizing both hospital and primary care services. Among the major developments is the increase in coverage for kidney transplants, now ranging from P800,000 to P2.1 million, up from the previous P600,000.

PhilHealth now also covers transplants involving deceased donors, which were previously limited to living donors. The Konsulta package includes free medical consultations, 15 essential diagnostic services, including blood tests, x-rays, mammography and breast ultrasound, and 21 maintenance medications for common conditions like diabetes, hypertension, bronchial asthma and mild infections. "This is not just about health care access, it's about health care that is right and secure," said Pargas.

As of May, around 3,200 health care facilities nationwide — comprising over 2,500 government clinics and 500 private facilities — have been accredited as Konsulta providers. These are supported by a growing network of 5,000 doctors delivering primary care under the program. To guarantee that patients receive the necessary medications, PhilHealth requires that accredited Konsulta providers either have their in-house pharmacy or a formal agreement with a partner pharmacy. This ensures that every patient who qualifies for the benefit can receive their prescribed medicines. Despite universal PhilHealth membership under the Universal Health Care Act, members must register with an accredited Konsulta provider to access the benefits. Filipinos are encouraged to select a provider that is most convenient for them, either near their home or workplace.

Source: manilatimes.net