PhilHealth exec vows to cut patient expenses to 25%

The new Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) President and Chief Executive Officer, Edwin Mercado, has pledged to significantly reduce patients' out-of-pocket medical expenses from the current 45-47 percent down to 25 percent.

Mercado emphasized the importance of accurate data for enhancing future benefits, aligning with President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr.'s directive for continuous service and expanded coverage.

Key priorities for his administration include computerization and digitalization to improve member experience, robust stakeholder engagement, and streamlined operational processes.

Mercado, a US-trained orthopedic surgeon with extensive experience in hospital management and healthcare programs, was sworn into office by President Marcos on February 4.