TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) — PhilHealth has expanded its benefit package for the treatment of ischemic heart disease or acute myocardial infarction, commonly known as heart attack, one of the leading causes of death in the country.
The updated package introduces comprehensive financial assistance to alleviate the burden on patients and their families.
The life-threatening condition occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, often due to cholesterol clots obstructing blood vessels. Contributing risk factors include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, high-fat diets, sedentary lifestyles, stress, family history, and diabetes.
The new package rate features include fibrinolysis treatment, a procedure using clot-dissolving medications with coverage ranging from P13,000 to P133,000, and angioplasty procedures, which now offer increased financial support of up to P523,853.
Cardiac rehabilitation sessions are also included, valued at P66,000, and sessions for at least six sessions, while an additional P22,000 is allocated for ambulance fees and essential medications.
Elmira D. Cruz, public relations officer of PhilHealth Region 2, stated that the recent improvements reflect PhilHealth’s continuous efforts to ensure that all members have access to necessary healthcare services.
“This expansion aims to provide better financial protection and access to healthcare services for all members,” Cruz added.
In support of its mission to provide universal healthcare, Jacob P. Battung, information officer-designate of PhilHealth Region 2, emphasized that PhilHealth guarantees members confined to basic or ward accommodations in accredited public or private hospitals can avail themselves of these benefits with no co-payment required.
“This initiative reflects PhilHealth’s commitment to providing financial protection and improving healthcare access for all Filipinos. We aim to address the growing burden of lifestyle-related diseases and ensure better outcomes for our members,” Battung explained. (OTB/MFJ/PIA Region 2)