The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) has found itself in the spotlight once again as it faces scrutiny over unpaid dues amounting to approximately ₱320 million to the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) for COVID-19 tests. This revelation comes directly from the chairman of the PRC, Richard Gordon, who highlighted the pressing issue during a recent Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum.
According to Gordon, PhilHealth’s outstanding balance for COVID-19 tests still stands at around ₱300 million, despite promises of payment. Expressing skepticism about the reliability of these assurances, Gordon emphasised the government’s responsibility to fulfill its financial obligations.
“PhilHealth still owes us about ₱300 million for the COVID tests. They say they will pay (but) I don’t know if that’s true,” Gordon said.
Gordon asserted that if one doesn’t pay, it’s a scam, drawing attention to the broader implications of delayed payments.
Gordon was recently recognised for his leadership in navigating the challenges posed by the pandemic. He was awarded a certificate of recognition by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) for the PRC’s successful COVID-19 response, which was credited with saving many lives.
Highlighting the pivotal role of the PRC’s extensive network and resources, Gordon credited the organization’s 14 molecular laboratories as instrumental in conducting widespread testing. He said that without these testing facilities, the toll of COVID-19 fatalities could have been significantly higher.
“Without us going into molecular laboratories, the 70,000 deaths would probably be about 7 million. Because of the testing, we were able to test almost 5,700,000,” Gordon said.
In a separate development, PhilHealth announced substantial increases in benefits for members afflicted with neonatal sepsis and bronchial asthma. Effective May 1, the organization has more than doubled its coverage for neonatal sepsis, with benefits increasing from ₱11,700 to ₱25,793. Similarly, individuals battling bronchial asthma can now access enhanced support, with coverage rates increasing from ₱9,000 to ₱22,488.
Rey Baleña, the acting vice president for corporate affairs group at PhilHealth, confirmed these adjustments, noting their significance in expanding access to quality healthcare services.
Any thoughts about this story? Leave a comment below.
