QUEZON CITY — The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has disbursed over PHP 654 million in benefits to cancer patients across the nation, benefiting 7,475 individuals since 2012. This substantial financial support underscores PhilHealth’s ongoing commitment to providing critical care for cancer patients.
According to Philippines News Agency, PhilHealth Quality Assurance Group Vice President Francisco Soria Jr. outlined the details of the distribution during a media forum on Friday. He noted that the amount allocated varies with the type of cancer and the treatment required. For instance, breast cancer patients benefit from comprehensive Z benefit packages, which include hormone therapy and necessary medical surveillance.
In May, PhilHealth enhanced its breast cancer package to PHP 1.4 million to cover all stages (0 to 4) of the disease, ensuring extensive support for diagnosis, surgery, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy for up to 18 cycles, and annual surveillance. Soria emphasized the lifetime utility of the surveillance component, highlighting its significance in ongoing patient care.
Additionally, Soria mentioned the all case rates (ACR) benefits, which provide coverage for cancers not included in the six Z benefit cancers (childhood acute lymphocytic leukemia, breast, prostate, cervical, colon, and rectal cancer). Following an increase in ACR package rates by 30% in February, PhilHealth plans further enhancements to the benefits for cervical and prostate cancer treatments.
This strategic enhancement of benefits reflects PhilHealth’s adaptive measures to address the evolving needs of cancer patients and improve their access to necessary treatments.