SENATOR Christopher “Bong” Go has expressed his full support for the recent enhancement of the PhilHealth Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama (Konsulta) program, which now includes an increase in the capitation rate to PhP1,700 per patient annually.
Go emphasized that this enhancement is crucial for ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare for all Filipinos.
“Ang layunin natin ay masiguro na ang bawat Pilipino ay may access sa abot-kayang serbisyong pangkalusugan. Isang importanteng hakbang po ang pagtaas ng capitation rate para masiguro natin na may sapat na pondo ang mga health providers upang maibigay ang kinakailangang serbisyo,” explained Go.
The Konsulta program, under the Universal Health Care Law, provides free annual check-ups, selected diagnostic tests, and prescribed medicines. The recent capitation increase will allow for the inclusion of additional services such as mammography and ultrasound screening, which are crucial for early detection of various health conditions.
“Sa panahon ngayon, mahalaga na palawakin natin ang saklaw ng ating mga programa sa kalusugan upang mas maraming kababayan ang makinabang,” said Go.
PhilHealth’s approval of the increased capitation rate is expected to be implemented by June 2024, with private Konsulta package providers allowed to collect a co-payment of up to PhP900, while public providers will continue to offer services without additional charges.
The Department of Health (DOH) and PhilHealth continue to work on operational details to ensure smooth implementation, which includes enhancements to the information technology systems.
Meanwhile, Go remains steadfast in advocating for policies and programs that enhance the health and well-being of Filipinos, aligning with his long-standing dedication to improving public service delivery and healthcare access.
As Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, he reiterated his support for the establishment of more Super Health Centers across the country, considering how they can significantly help reduce hospital occupancy rates while bringing government medical services closer to the grassroots.
Super Health Centers are designed to focus on primary care, consultation, and early detection, further strengthening the healthcare sector in the country, especially in grassroots communities.
He also confirmed that free consultations would be handled by municipal health offices, local government units, and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation through its Konsulta program.
“Patuloy kaming magseserbisyo sa inyo dahil bisyo ko ang magserbisyo at ako ay naniniwala na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo ‘yan sa Panginoon, serbisyo ‘yan kay Allah,” underscored Go, who is known as Mr. Malasakit for his compassionate service to Filipinos in need.