Wilbert Lee Pushes for Reforms to Maximize PhilHealth Benefits
Wilbert Lee Pushes for Reforms to Maximize PhilHealth Benefits Congressman Lee Pushes for Reforms to Strengthen PhilHealth Benefits Bicolano lawmaker Wilbert Lee is advocating for systemic reforms to ensure that the expanded PhilHealth benefits truly benefit Filipinos. Speaking during a recent health committee hearing, Lee called for the government to invest in public hospital upgrades and resolve systemic issues in PhilHealth claims processing. “Ang expanded PhilHealth benefits ay makakatulong lamang kung may sapat na kagamitan ang ating mga ospital. Kailangan ng konkretong solusyon para sa kakulangan sa pasilidad,” Lee said. Ensuring Access to Diagnostic Tools for PhilHealth Patients Lee highlighted the lack of essential medical equipment in many public hospitals, such as PET scans, CT scans, and MRI machines. He pointed out that while PhilHealth benefits now cover these diagnostic procedures, patients in underserved areas often have to travel to major cities for testing, creating additional burdens for them and their families. “Paano makikinabang ang ating mga kababayan kung ang PET scan ay nasa iilang ospital lang?” Lee asked. He urged the Department of Health to accelerate its Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP) to ensure that all Filipinos, regardless of location, can access life-saving services covered by PhilHealth benefits. Comprehensive Solutions to Improve PhilHealth Services Lee also proposed an amnesty program for hospitals and doctors with unresolved PhilHealth claims, which he said often lead to service disruptions. He emphasized the importance of resolving these cases to prevent hospitals from being suspended, which ultimately affects patients’ access to care. PhilHealth CEO Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. expressed strong support for Lee’s reforms, highlighting how they address long-standing issues in the healthcare system. Lee concluded by calling for a collaborative effort between the government and private sector to improve PhilHealth benefits and healthcare access for all Filipinos. #PhilHealthBenefits #HealthReforms #HospitalImprovements #QualityHealthcare #PhilHealthExpansion Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 28 Jan 2025 Wilbert Lee Pushes for Reforms to Maximize PhilHealth Benefits 22 Jan 2025 Public Hospitals Need Upgrades to Support New PhilHealth Benefits 20 Jan 2025 Lee Calls for More Equipment, Improved Hospitals to Fully Realize PhilHealth Benefits Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Lee Calls for More Equipment, Improved Hospitals to Fully Realize PhilHealth Benefits
Lee Calls for More Equipment, Improved Hospitals to Fully Realize PhilHealth Benefits Congressman Wilbert Lee Advocates for Improved Hospitals to Maximize PhilHealth Benefits Bicolano Congressman Wilbert Lee has emphasized the need for public hospital improvements to ensure that Filipinos can fully benefit from the expanded PhilHealth benefits. During the House Committee on Health hearing, Lee pointed out that the lack of essential medical equipment in public hospitals further hinders access to the services that PhilHealth benefits are meant to provide. “Ang mga benepisyo ng PhilHealth ay nasasayang kung walang sapat na kagamitan at pasilidad,” Lee said. He called on the Department of Health (DOH) to fast-track the procurement of diagnostic tools such as CT scans, PET scans, and MRI machines under the Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP). Gaps in Medical Equipment Hinder Access to PhilHealth Benefits Lee stressed that while PhilHealth benefits cover some diagnostic tests and treatments, many public hospitals across the country lack the necessary equipment to deliver these services. “Napakarami nating kababayan ang hindi nakikinabang sa PhilHealth dahil kailangan pa nilang bumiyahe nang malayo para sa CT scan o MRI,” he explained. Currently, only a few hospitals, such as the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) and the National Kidney Transplant Institute (NKTI), have PET scan machines. This limitation delays critical diagnoses and treatments, especially for Filipinos in rural areas who rely on PhilHealth benefits to reduce medical costs. Amnesty for Hospitals to Improve Healthcare Access To complement the expanded PhilHealth benefits, Lee also proposed a measure providing amnesty for hospitals and doctors with unresolved cases involving denied PhilHealth claims. According to Lee, these unresolved cases often lead to penalties and hospital suspensions, disrupting healthcare services for patients. “Kailangan nating i-address ang mga problema sa claims para mas maraming ospital ang makapagbigay ng serbisyo,” Lee said. PhilHealth President Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. expressed full support for the proposal, stating that resolving these cases would improve the overall healthcare system. Lee reiterated his commitment to fighting for improved PhilHealth benefits, better public hospitals, and affordable healthcare for all Filipinos. “Ang layunin natin ay libreng gamot at pagpapagamot para sa lahat. Kailangang magtulungan ang gobyerno at pribadong sektor para makamit ito.” #PhilHealthBenefits #HospitalUpgrades #HealthcareForAll #MedicalEquipment #BetterPublicHospitals Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 20 Jan 2025 Lee Calls for More Equipment, Improved Hospitals to Fully Realize PhilHealth Benefits 15 Jan 2025 LEE DEMANDS DOH TO PROVIDE MORE EQUIPMENT IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS, SEEKS AMNESTY ON HOSPITALS, DOCTORS WITH UNRESOLVED CASES 11 Jan 2025 Manoy Wilbert 'Wise' Lee: Strengthening Healthcare Amid Rising Medical Costs Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Manoy Wilbert ‘Wise’ Lee: Strengthening Healthcare Amid Rising Medical Costs
Manoy Wilbert ‘Wise’ Lee: Strengthening Healthcare Amid Rising Medical Costs The projected 18.3% increase in healthcare costs in the Philippines this year has prompted AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial aspirant Manoy Wilbert Lee to renew his call for sweeping reforms in the country’s healthcare system. With PhilHealth holding over ₱500 billion in funds and a ₱100 billion annual government subsidy, Lee is urging immediate action to expand benefits and alleviate the burden on Filipinos. A Troubling Forecast A recent Global Medical Trends Survey by WTW revealed that the Philippines is second only to Indonesia in Asia Pacific when it comes to rising medical costs. This double-digit increase threatens to exacerbate the challenges faced by Filipinos, many of whom already struggle to afford hospital bills and essential medicines. “Kung magmamahal pa ang pagpapa-ospital ngayong taon, hindi rin gaanong mararamdaman ang mga dagdag na benepisyong ipinatupad ng PhilHealth,” Lee remarked, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the issue to ensure Filipinos are not left behind. Utilizing PhilHealth’s Resources With PhilHealth holding significant financial reserves, Lee argues that there is no excuse for delays in expanding benefits. “DOH as the head of PhilHealth Board and the state health insurer itself must ramp up its efforts to utilize the more than ₱500 billion available funds to further increase the benefits,” he stated. Lee has already made significant strides in healthcare reform. In February 2024, his efforts led to a 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits—the first major adjustment in over a decade. This was followed by a 50% increase covering 9,000 case rates, a milestone that reflects Lee’s relentless push for accessible healthcare. Unfulfilled Promises and Delays Despite these achievements, Lee highlights the need for PhilHealth and DOH to fulfill their remaining commitments. During the 2025 DOH Budget deliberations, he secured agreements to implement additional benefits, including free dialysis, expanded coverage for heart ailments, and free diagnostic tests such as CT scans and MRIs. However, these promises remain unrealized, prompting Lee to demand accountability. “Kung kailangan mag-overtime ng DOH at PhilHealth, gawin na ito. Walang dapat sayangin dahil buhay ng mga kababayan natin ang nakasalalay dito,” he stressed. Milestones in Healthcare Advocacy Lee’s advocacy has already brought significant improvements to the healthcare system, including: Free dialysis treatments for patients in need. An increase in breast cancer treatment coverage from ₱100,000 to ₱1.4 million. Free eye checkups, cataract extractions, and prescription glasses. Expanded benefit packages for outpatient emergency care and kidney transplants. These reforms reflect Lee’s commitment to easing the financial burden on Filipino families and ensuring that healthcare is accessible to all. A Vision of Universal Healthcare At the core of Lee’s campaign is his vision for Universal Health Care, where every Filipino has access to free medicines and treatments. His slogan, “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko,” underscores his belief that the government has a responsibility to provide comprehensive healthcare services. “Patuloy natin itong ipaglalaban dahil ang layunin ko: Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko!” Lee declared. His vision resonates with millions of Filipinos who dream of a healthcare system that prioritizes compassion, equity, and quality. The Path Forward As healthcare costs continue to rise, Lee remains steadfast in his mission to push for reforms that address these challenges. He calls on Filipinos to join his advocacy, stating, “Ituloy lang natin ang paniningil at lakasan pa natin ang ating boses para tuluyang makamit ang isang patas, de-kalidad, at mapagmalasakit na serbisyong pangkalusugan sa bansa.” Lee’s leadership offers hope amid mounting healthcare challenges. His tireless efforts to hold institutions accountable and advocate for expanded benefits ensure that Filipinos will not face these rising costs alone. A Legacy of Service Manoy Wilbert Lee’s work in healthcare reform is more than just policy—it is a testament to his commitment to improving the lives of every Filipino. As the nation grapples with rising medical expenses, Lee’s advocacy provides a blueprint for a future where healthcare is a right, not a privilege. #ManoyWilbertWiseLee #GamotMoSagotKo #PhilHealthReforms #HealthcareAccessibility #UniversalHealthcarePH Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 15 Jan 2025 Manoy Wilbert 'Wise' Lee: Strengthening Healthcare Amid Rising Medical Costs 15 Jan 2025 LEE DEMANDS DOH TO PROVIDE MORE EQUIPMENT IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS, SEEKS AMNESTY ON HOSPITALS, DOCTORS WITH UNRESOLVED CASES 10 Jan 2025 Amid Rising Costs, Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Swift PhilHealth Reforms Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Amid Rising Costs, Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Swift PhilHealth Reforms
Amid Rising Costs, Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Swift PhilHealth Reforms As the Philippines faces a projected 18.3% increase in healthcare costs in 2024, Representative Manoy Wilbert Lee is leading the charge for urgent reforms in the country’s healthcare system. With the rise in medical expenses threatening to overwhelm many Filipinos, Lee is calling on the Department of Health (DOH) and PhilHealth to intensify their efforts to expand benefits and fully utilize available funds. A Healthcare Crisis Looming A recent Global Medical Trends Survey by WTW places the Philippines among the Asia Pacific countries with the highest anticipated healthcare cost increases this year, second only to Indonesia. This troubling trend has raised alarms, as Filipinos already grapple with the burden of expensive medical treatments and hospitalization. “Kung magmamahal pa ang pagpapa-ospital ngayong taon, hindi rin gaanong mararamdaman ang mga dagdag na benepisyong ipinatupad ng PhilHealth,” Lee warned. He emphasized that the rising costs would dilute the impact of recent benefit enhancements unless swift and substantial reforms are implemented. PhilHealth’s Half a Trillion Peso Potential PhilHealth has more than ₱500 billion in available funds, aside from its ₱100 billion annual government subsidy. Lee argues that these resources must be mobilized immediately to meet the demands of Universal Health Care. “Walang dapat sayangin dahil buhay ng mga kababayan natin ang nakasalalay dito,” he stressed. Lee’s advocacy has already resulted in historic reforms, including a 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits in February 2024 and a 50% increase covering 9,000 case rates. While these achievements are significant, he believes there is still much work to be done. “Nadagdagan na ang mga benepisyo, pero kaya pang bilisan at dagdagan ang mga ito,” Lee said, urging PhilHealth to implement reforms with urgency. Delays in Promised Reforms During the 2025 DOH Budget deliberations, Lee secured commitments from DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa and PhilHealth President Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. to enhance healthcare services. These commitments included expanded benefits for heart ailments, outpatient emergency care services, and kidney transplants, as well as free diagnostic tests such as CT scans and MRIs. However, many of these promises remain unfulfilled. Lee continues to hold PhilHealth and DOH accountable for their delays, urging them to work overtime if necessary. “Kung kailangan mag-overtime ng DOH at PhilHealth, gawin na ito,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of delivering on these commitments without further delay. Achievements in Healthcare Advocacy Lee’s dedication to healthcare reform has already brought tangible benefits to millions of Filipinos. Among his notable accomplishments are: Free dialysis treatments for those in need. Increased breast cancer treatment coverage from ₱100,000 to ₱1.4 million. Free eye checkups, cataract extractions, and prescription glasses. Expanded PhilHealth coverage for critical treatments such as heart ailments and kidney transplants. These reforms, while significant, represent only a fraction of Lee’s broader vision for Universal Health Care. A Vision for Free Healthcare At the heart of Lee’s advocacy is his belief that healthcare should be a right, not a privilege. His slogan, “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko,” underscores his goal of making medicines and treatments accessible to all Filipinos, regardless of their financial circumstances. “Patuloy natin itong ipaglalaban dahil ang layunin ko: Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko!” Lee declared. His relentless efforts have inspired a growing movement among Filipinos who share his vision of an equitable healthcare system. Rallying Filipinos for Change Lee’s message is clear: the fight for better healthcare requires collective action. “Ituloy lang natin ang paniningil at lakasan pa natin ang ating boses,” he urged, encouraging Filipinos to join his call for meaningful and lasting reforms. As the country braces for rising healthcare costs, Lee’s leadership offers a beacon of hope. His commitment to holding institutions accountable and pushing for bold reforms ensures that the welfare of every Filipino remains a top priority. #ManoyWilbertWiseLee #HealthcareReforms #GamotMoSagotKo #PhilHealthUpdates #UniversalHealthCarePH Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 15 Jan 2025 Amid Rising Costs, Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Swift PhilHealth Reforms 15 Jan 2025 LEE DEMANDS DOH TO PROVIDE MORE EQUIPMENT IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS, SEEKS AMNESTY ON HOSPITALS, DOCTORS WITH UNRESOLVED CASES 09 Jan 2025 Manoy Wilbert 'Wise' Lee: Doubling Down on PhilHealth Benefits Amid Rising Health Care Costs Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Manoy Wilbert ‘Wise’ Lee: Doubling Down on PhilHealth Benefits Amid Rising Health Care Costs
Manoy Wilbert ‘Wise’ Lee: Doubling Down on PhilHealth Benefits Amid Rising Health Care Costs As healthcare costs in the Philippines are projected to rise by 18.3% this year, AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial aspirant Manoy Wilbert Lee is calling for urgent action. With the Philippines posting one of the highest medical cost increases in Asia Pacific, Lee is urging the Department of Health (DOH) and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to expedite and expand benefits to alleviate the burden on Filipinos. Healthcare Costs on the Rise The 2024 Global Medical Trends Survey conducted by WTW, a global advisory and solutions company, predicts a sharp increase in healthcare expenses in the Philippines, second only to Indonesia in the Asia Pacific region. The escalating costs threaten to undermine the gains of recent benefit enhancements, leaving many Filipinos vulnerable. “Kung magmamahal pa ang pagpapa-ospital ngayong taon, hindi rin gaanong mararamdaman ang mga dagdag na benepisyong ipinatupad ng PhilHealth,” Lee noted. His appeal to ramp up benefit increases stems from the belief that healthcare must remain accessible despite rising medical costs. Unlocking PhilHealth’s Billions Lee has repeatedly emphasized the need for PhilHealth and DOH to fully utilize the ₱500 billion available in funds, along with the annual government subsidy of over ₱100 billion. “Walang dapat sayangin dahil buhay ng mga kababayan natin ang nakasalalay dito,” he declared, urging both institutions to go above and beyond to meet their mandates. Lee’s consistent advocacy led to a historic 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits in February 2024 and, more recently, a 50% increase covering 9,000 case rates. However, he stresses that these milestones are not enough. “Nadagdagan na ang mga benepisyo, pero kaya pang bilisan at dagdagan ang mga ito,” he said, pushing for continuous improvements to fully realize the objectives of Universal Health Care. Commitments and Challenges The Bicolano lawmaker’s efforts have been pivotal in securing commitments from DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa and PhilHealth President Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. during the 2025 DOH Budget deliberations. These include promises to further enhance benefits and expand coverage for critical treatments such as free dialysis, breast cancer treatment, and outpatient emergency care services. Lee’s advocacy has already resulted in significant improvements, such as: Increasing breast cancer treatment coverage from ₱100,000 to ₱1.4 million. Securing free eye checkups, cataract extractions, and prescription glasses. Expanding benefit packages for heart ailments and kidney transplants. Despite these victories, Lee continues to highlight the delays in fulfilling all the agreed-upon reforms. “Kung kailangan mag-overtime ng DOH at PhilHealth, gawin na ito,” he urged, emphasizing the urgency of addressing healthcare gaps. A Vision for Accessible Healthcare Lee’s campaign for healthcare reform is driven by a singular goal: to make medicines and medical treatments free for all Filipinos. His slogan, “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko,” encapsulates his vision of a government that fully supports its citizens’ health needs. “Patuloy natin itong ipaglalaban dahil ang layunin ko: Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko!” Lee declared passionately. His efforts have inspired a growing movement, with more Filipinos joining his call for equitable, high-quality, and compassionate healthcare services. A Call to Action As Lee looks to the future, he remains steadfast in his mission to build a healthcare system that prioritizes the well-being of every Filipino. “Ituloy lang natin ang paniningil at lakasan pa natin ang ating boses,” he urged, calling for collective action to achieve lasting reforms. The fight for better healthcare is far from over, but with leaders like Manoy Wilbert Lee at the forefront, Filipinos can look forward to a future where medical care is not a privilege but a right. #ManoyWilbertWiseLee #HealthcareReforms #GamotMoSagotKo #PhilHealthUpdates #UniversalHealthcarePH Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 15 Jan 2025 Manoy Wilbert 'Wise' Lee: Doubling Down on PhilHealth Benefits Amid Rising Health Care Costs 08 Jan 2025 Amid expected 18% increase in PH health care costs LEE TO DOH, PHILHEALTH: RAMP UP MORE BENEFIT INCREASES WITH BILLIONS OF FUNDS 04 Jan 2025 Agriculture and Health: Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee’s Twin Pillars of Advocacy in 2024 Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Amid expected 18% increase in PH health care costs LEE TO DOH, PHILHEALTH: RAMP UP MORE BENEFIT INCREASES WITH BILLIONS OF FUNDS
Amid expected 18% increase in PH health care costs LEE TO DOH, PHILHEALTH: RAMP UP MORE BENEFIT INCREASES WITH BILLIONS OF FUNDS “Paspasan pa ang pagdaragdag ng benepisyo!” This was the statement of AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial aspirant Manoy Wilbert Lee as he reiterated his call to further increase benefits provided by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) in response to the projected 18.3% increase in health care costs in the Philippines this year. In the latest Global Medical Trends Survey conducted by WTW, a global advisory, broking and solutions company, the Philippines is expected to post the double digit increase in medical costs, the second highest in Asia Pacific next to Indonesia which is expected to incur 19.4% increase. “Kung magmamahal pa ang pagpapa-ospital ngayong taon, hindi rin gaanong mararamdaman ang mga dagdag na benepisyong ipinatupad ng PhilHealth. Kaya dapat lang na dagdagan pa ito para naman talagang mabawasan ang pangamba at alalahanin ng ating mga kababayan sa pagkakasakit,” the solon from Bicol said. “DOH as the head of PhilHealth Board and the state health insurer itself must ramp up its efforts to utilize the more than P500 billion, or half a trillion available funds to further increase the benefits and genuinely achieve the objectives of Universal Health Care,” Lee said. The Bicolano lawmaker likewise reiterated his call to leave no stone unturned to completely allay the fears of Filipinos from falling ill as they fear sinking further into poverty due to their inability to buy medicines and afford high hospital costs. “Nadagdagan na ang mga benepisyo, pero kaya pang bilisan at dagdagan ang mga ito. Kung kailangan mag-overtime ng DOH at PhilHealth, gawin na ito. Walang dapat sayangin dahil buhay ng mga kababayan natin ang nakasalalay dito at sobrang delayed na rin ng implementasyon nito,” Lee said. It can be recalled that the Bicolano lawmaker was the first to expose in September 2023 that PhilHealth had enormous available funds amounting to more than P500 billion, aside from the more than P100 billion government subsidy every year. While Lee acknowledges the recent implementation of another 50% increase in PhilHealth benefits covering 9,000 case rates, a result of his consistent push to improve the country’s healthcare services, he emphasizes that there’s still a lot to be done, highlighting the other commitments he sealed that DOH and PhilHealth have yet to comply with. The said commitment was signed by no less than DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa and PhilHealth President and CEO Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. during the House Plenary deliberations on the 2025 DOH Budget that ended in a mic scuffle last September 25. Aside from the recent 50% increase, Lee was also instrumental in the 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits which started on February 14, after more than a decade of case rates not being reviewed or adjusted. Lee also prevailed in pushing for free dialysis, increase in coverage for breast cancer treatment from P100,000 to P1.4 million, free eye checkup, free cataract extraction and free prescription glasses, and pushing for expanded benefits on heart ailments, new benefit packages for outpatient emergency care services and kidney transplant. “Marami na tayong napagtagumpayan, pero hindi matatapos ang ating pangangalampag hangga’t hindi pa libre ang gamot at pagpapagamot ng mga Pilipino. Dapat sagot na ito ng gobyerno. Patuloy natin itong ipaglalaban dahil ang layunin ko: Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko!” Lee said. “Marami na rin tayong kasama sa panawagan na ito na ating sinimulan mahigit isang taon na ang nakakaraan. Ituloy lang natin ang paniningil at lakasan pa natin ang ating boses para tuluyang makamit ang isang patas, de-kalidad at mapagmalasakit na serbisyong pangkalusugan sa bansa,” he added. ### Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 09 Jan 2025 Amid expected 18% increase in PH health care costs LEE TO DOH, PHILHEALTH: RAMP UP MORE BENEFIT INCREASES WITH BILLIONS OF FUNDS 04 Jan 2025 Agriculture and Health: Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee’s Twin Pillars of Advocacy in 2024 03 Jan 2025 PhilHealth Reforms: How Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee Redefined Healthcare in 2024 Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Healthcare Advocacy in Action: “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko”
Healthcare Advocacy in Action: “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko” In a nation where millions grapple with the challenges of accessing affordable healthcare, Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee stands as a beacon of hope. His relentless advocacy for healthcare reforms has earned him widespread recognition, with his slogan, “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko,” encapsulating his mission to make medicines and treatments accessible to all Filipinos. As PhilHealth rolls out new benefit enhancements, Lee continues to push for more comprehensive reforms, demonstrating that his fight for a healthier Philippines is far from over. A Vision Rooted in Service Lee’s advocacy stems from a deep understanding of the struggles faced by ordinary Filipinos. For years, many have endured the pain of illness without seeking treatment due to the prohibitive cost of healthcare. Lee’s call for free medicines and treatment is not just a political stance but a moral imperative. “Dagdag lang nang dagdag ng mga benepisyo hanggang maging libre na ang gamot at pagpapagamot ng mga Pilipino,” Lee passionately declared. This vision has driven his efforts to hold the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the Department of Health (DOH) accountable for their use of public funds. Breaking Barriers in Healthcare Access The recent enhancements to PhilHealth’s benefits—while a welcome development—are just the tip of the iceberg. These include a 50% increase in case rates for select conditions, expanded packages for heart ailments, and new outpatient services. However, Lee has pointed out that these changes are long overdue and still insufficient to address the healthcare needs of Filipinos. During the 2023 House Plenary Deliberations on the DOH budget, Lee secured critical commitments from DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa and PhilHealth President Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. These include free diagnostic tests like CT scans and MRIs, increased coverage for cancer treatments, and comprehensive plans to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Yet, many of these promises remain unfulfilled, underscoring the challenges of implementing meaningful reforms. From Advocacy to Action Lee’s influence is evident in the changes that have already taken place. Earlier this year, he championed a 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits, breaking a decade-long stagnation in case rate reviews. He also played a pivotal role in expanding coverage for breast cancer treatments, raising the benefit from ₱100,000 to ₱1.4 million—a change that has brought hope to countless Filipinos battling the disease. Additionally, Lee’s push for free eye checkups and prescription glasses is nearing fruition. These initiatives reflect his broader vision of a healthcare system that prioritizes the well-being of every Filipino, regardless of their financial situation. Holding Institutions Accountable At the heart of Lee’s advocacy is a demand for accountability. His exposé of billions of pesos in unused PhilHealth funds in 2023 highlighted the inefficiencies within the healthcare system. For Lee, these funds represent missed opportunities to provide critical services to Filipinos in need. “Make it your New Year’s Resolution to not repeat the same mistake of not using the billions of funds for healthcare benefits,” Lee urged PhilHealth and the DOH. His call for proactive healthcare spending is a stark reminder of the consequences of inaction. A Personal Touch to Advocacy What sets Lee apart is his ability to connect with the people he serves. His advocacy is not confined to the halls of Congress but extends to communities where the lack of healthcare access is felt most acutely. By championing causes that directly impact everyday Filipinos, Lee has become a trusted voice in the fight for better healthcare. His slogan, “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko,” is more than a campaign promise—it’s a commitment to ensuring that no Filipino is denied the care they need. Through his actions, Lee has demonstrated that meaningful change is possible, even in the face of systemic challenges. The Road Ahead While recent developments signal progress, Lee remains steadfast in his belief that more must be done. His vision for a healthcare system that provides free medicines and treatments is a lofty goal but one that he is determined to achieve. As he continues to hold institutions accountable and push for more comprehensive reforms, Lee’s leadership offers hope to millions of Filipinos. Empowering a Nation Lee’s advocacy serves as a powerful reminder that healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege. By championing policies that prioritize the needs of the people, he is helping to build a healthcare system that truly serves the nation. As his campaign for better healthcare continues, Filipinos can look forward to a future where access to medical care is no longer a luxury but a guarantee. #ManoyWilbertWiseLee #GamotMoSagotKo #PhilHealthAdvocacy #HealthcareReforms #UniversalHealthcarePH Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 06 Jan 2025 Healthcare Advocacy in Action: "Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko" 31 Dec 2024 LEE MARKS 2024 WITH BIG WINS, VOWS TO CONTINUE FIGHTING FOR BETTER SERVICES FILIPINOS DESERVE 30 Dec 2024 Manoy Wilbert "Wise" Lee: The Voice Behind PhilHealth's New Benefits Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News