CFO pushes US Medicare portability for Filipino-Americans

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) is advocating for US Medicare portability in the Philippines alongside various government agencies.

Secretary Dante Ang II emphasized that this initiative would encourage Filipino-American retirees to return home, boosting the local economy and reversing the narrative from brain drain to brain gain.

Eric Lachica of USMedicarePH highlighted a bipartisan bill introduced by Guam Congressman James Moylan supporting Medicare portability for Filipino-Americans, which is currently pending with the House subcommittee on health.

Health Secretary Ted Herbosa noted that returning healthcare professionals could enhance the country's medical sector and support the government's Universal Healthcare agenda.

The initiative aims to alleviate financial strain on the US healthcare system while transforming the Philippines into a premier medical tourism hub.

US Medicare portability would allow Filipino-Americans to continue receiving benefits in the Philippines, potentially saving costs for both countries and addressing current limitations under which coverage is only provided within six months of leaving the US.

CFO Chairperson Dante Ang II and Health Secretary Ted Herbosa are supporting the lobbying efforts to facilitate discussions between Medicare and PhilHealth regarding insurance portability.