PhilHealth expands mental health outpatient benefits

The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) reminded Filipinos on Tuesday to take advantage of the outpatient benefits package for mental health.

This package covers various conditions such as depression, psychosis, epilepsy, child and adolescent behavioral disorders, dementia, self-harm risks, and suicide prevention.

PhilHealth Circular 2023-0018 allows members aged 10 and above access to services like initial assessments, follow-up consultations, diagnostic tests, psychosocial support, and specialized care from psychiatrists, neurologists, and psychologists.

Acting PhilHealth President Edwin Mercado emphasized that these benefits align with the government's goal of addressing healthcare needs comprehensively.

General mental health services are covered annually up to PHP9,000, while specialized care has an annual coverage of PHP16,000.

Individuals can access these services at various accredited facilities including rural health units, city or municipal health offices, and stand-alone mental health clinics.

PhilHealth encourages more providers to participate in making these mental health services accessible to Filipinos and highlights the importance of using 24/7 crisis hotlines for immediate counseling.