Lawmakers want PhilHealth to extend full COVID-19 coverage

Lawmakers are urging PhilHealth to continue covering the full hospitalization expenses of COVID-19 patients beyond April 14, citing the ongoing threat of the pandemic.

Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez expressed concern that PhilHealth's imposed case limits for pneumonia and COVID-19 treatment would leave many Filipinos unable to afford the excess medical costs.

Rodriguez pointed out that PhilHealth initially allotted P30 billion to cover all COVID-19 medical expenses, with specific case limits ranging from P43,997 for mild pneumonia to P786,384 for critical pneumonia/COVID-19.

Anakalusugan partylist Rep. Mike Defensor agreed, advocating for PhilHealth to cover the actual costs rather than a fixed case rate, which he believes can lead to financial discrepancies and lack of audits.

Defensor highlighted that the national government has provided substantial funds to PhilHealth, suggesting these should be used for comprehensive coverage during the crisis.

ACT Teachers party-list Rep. France Castro called for the revocation of PhilHealth Advisory No. 2020-022, which outlines the shift to a recomputed case rate after April 14.

Castro emphasized that the COVID-19 pandemic does not adhere to deadlines and that restricting coverage could deter people from seeking necessary testing and treatment.

She questioned the use of emergency powers if citizens are still expected to shoulder medical expenses for COVID-19, referencing the "Bayanihan to Heal As One Act" which mandates PhilHealth coverage.

Castro stated that without guaranteed coverage, Filipinos may fear medical costs more than the virus itself, hindering the government's efforts to contain the spread.

She echoed the sentiment that middle-income families, who may not have HMOs, also require PhilHealth assistance for COVID-19 treatment costs, which can be as high as P3.2 million.