UHC AMENDMENTS LEE FOUGHT FOR TO REFORM PHILHEALTH: HINDI NA PWEDENG PURO COLLECT!
UHC AMENDMENTS LEE FOUGHT FOR TO REFORM PHILHEALTH: HINDI NA PWEDENG PURO COLLECT! “Benepisyo muna bago koleksyon!” This was the statement of AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial Aspirant Manoy Wilbert Lee as he welcomed the impending passage of the proposed amendments to Republic Act No. 11223 or the “Universal Health Care (UHC) Act”. Lee, principal author of House Bill No. 11357 which recently passed on second reading in the House of Representatives, reiterated that the current version of the UHC Law puts greater emphasis on premium collection rather than the enhancement of benefits that is why there is a need to balance these policies to provide quality and sufficient healthcare coverage. The Bicolano lawmaker earlier stressed the need to increase the budget for administrative costs of PhilHealth so it can boost its personnel to fast-track the implementation of healthcare benefit increases. Under this proposed measure, PhilHealth shall be authorized to charge a maximum of 7.5 percent of the total reimbursements or the benefits payments from the preceding year for its administrative expenses, instead of 7.5 percent of total premium collections for administrative costs. “Sa pamamagitan nito, kung mas mataas ang mga benepisyong babayaran ng PhilHealth, mas malaki din ang magiging budget nila. Ito ang pangmatagalang repormang itinutulak nating maisabatas para hindi na rin maulit ang zero subsidy at siya ring magtutulak sa PhilHealth para mag-refocus,” Lee said. “Hindi dapat kaltas o binabayarang kontribusyon ang nararamdaman ng mga Pilipino kundi dagdag na mga benepisyo. Sa pagsasabatas ng ipinaglaban nating mga probisyon, wala nang rason para sa DOH at PhilHealth para maging makupad sa pagdaragdag ng mga benepisyo,” he added. As early as October 2024, the solon from Bicol filed his proposed amendments to the UHC Law which include the timely assessment of case rates and lowering of premium contributions. Since Lee’s revelation of the hundreds of billions or more than half a trillion of PhilHealth’s “unused” funds in September 2023, massive increases of PhilHealth benefits were implemented since more than a decade of long-overdue benefit enhancement. Through Lee’s legislative measures and relentless efforts, PhilHealth benefits increased by 30% last February 2024 and implemented another 50% increase this 2025. The solon’s consistent calls for better healthcare benefits also paved the way for free dialysis, free eye check-up and prescription glasses for ages 0-15, free dental care, expanded coverage for breast cancer treatment, new benefit package for kidney transplant and heart ailments, and outpatient emergency care services, among others. “We thank our colleagues in the House of Representatives for their support of our proposed amendments. We hope to maintain this kind of momentum for the amendments of UHC until it is enacted and eventually implemented to help our countrymen. Isang napakahalagang hakbang nito palapit sa layunin ng Universal Health Care,” Lee stated. “Hindi po natin ito tatantanan hanggang maabot natin ang libreng gamot at pagpapagamot ng bawat Pilipino. Pagtulungan po nating maibsan hanggang tuluyang mabura ang pangamba ng ating mga kababayan sa pagkakasakit sa takot na lalong malubog sa utang at kahirapan.” He added: “Huwag tayong maging bulag at manhid sa napakarami nating mga kababayan na namamatay nang wala man lang laban sa sakit dahil lang sa di naibibigay ng gobyerno ang serbisyong deserve at nararapat para sa kanila. Ang gamot at pagpapagamot, dapat sagot na ng gobyerno. Ang layunin ko: Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko!” Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 31 Jan 2025 UHC AMENDMENTS LEE FOUGHT FOR TO REFORM PHILHEALTH: HINDI NA PWEDENG PURO COLLECT! 28 Jan 2025 Wilbert Lee Pushes for Reforms to Maximize PhilHealth Benefits 22 Jan 2025 Public Hospitals Need Upgrades to Support New 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: 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
Agriculture and Health: Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee’s Twin Pillars of Advocacy in 2024
Agriculture and Health: Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee’s Twin Pillars of Advocacy in 2024 Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee has long been a staunch advocate for the welfare of Filipinos, with his work spanning two critical sectors: health and agriculture. In 2024, Lee achieved remarkable milestones that reinforced his commitment to uplifting the lives of farmers, fisherfolk, and the general population. His dual focus on healthcare reform and agricultural development has positioned him as a transformative figure in the nation’s journey toward equity and progress. A Vision for Food Security and Livelihoods As the representative of the AGRI Party-list, Lee has consistently championed policies to protect the livelihood of farmers and fisherfolk. Recognizing their vital role in ensuring the nation’s food security, Lee has led efforts to create sustainable solutions to the rising cost of food and the challenges faced by the agricultural sector. Among Lee’s key legislative accomplishments in 2024 are the passage of three landmark laws: Republic Act (RA) No. 11985: The Philippine Salt Industry Development Act, aimed at revitalizing the local salt industry to reduce import dependency and support local producers. RA 12022: The Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, which penalizes activities that harm farmers and food producers, such as smuggling and hoarding. RA 12078: The Agricultural Tariffication Act, which provides a sustainable framework for balancing tariff policies with the protection of local agricultural industries. These measures are not just policy wins—they represent Lee’s dedication to addressing systemic issues in the agricultural sector and his vision of empowering rural communities. Legislative Advocacy for a Better Tomorrow In addition to his legislative victories, Lee has continued to push for the passage of critical bills designed to further strengthen the agricultural sector. These include: The Cheaper Rice Act, which aims to stabilize rice prices and make this staple food more affordable for Filipino families. The Post-Harvest Facilities Act, which seeks to provide farmers with access to modern facilities to reduce post-harvest losses. The Kadiwa Agri-Food Terminal Act, designed to establish accessible marketplaces for local farmers and consumers. The Fishing Shelters and Ports Act, which proposes the construction of essential infrastructure to support the livelihoods of fisherfolk. Lee’s proactive approach to legislation reflects his understanding of the interconnectedness of food security, economic stability, and national development. Healthcare Reform: A Parallel Priority While Lee’s work in agriculture is commendable, his advocacy for healthcare reform has been equally impactful. As the lawmaker who first exposed PhilHealth’s billions of unused funds in 2023, Lee has since worked tirelessly to implement reforms that directly benefit Filipinos. In 2024, Lee successfully pushed for a 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits, free dialysis treatments, and a substantial rise in coverage for breast cancer treatment—from ₱100,000 to ₱1.4 million. These reforms have brought relief to countless families burdened by the high cost of medical care. Additionally, Lee’s efforts to include free eye checkups, cataract extractions, and prescription glasses in PhilHealth’s coverage demonstrate his commitment to making healthcare more accessible. His call for a 50% increase in benefits for outpatient emergency care services and kidney transplants reflects his broader vision of a healthcare system that prioritizes the well-being of every Filipino. Bridging Sectors: Agriculture and Health as National Priorities Lee’s advocacy highlights the interconnectedness of health and agriculture. By ensuring that farmers and fisherfolk have access to livelihood opportunities, he indirectly addresses health disparities, as improved economic stability enables better access to medical care. Similarly, his healthcare reforms aim to reduce out-of-pocket expenses, allowing families to allocate more resources to essentials like food and education. “Marami na tayong napagtagumpayan ngunit hindi po dito natatapos ang ating paniningil at pangangalampag sa Department of Health at PhilHealth,” Lee said, underscoring his relentless pursuit of comprehensive reforms. His slogan, “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko,” resonates across both sectors, symbolizing his commitment to addressing the needs of every Filipino. Looking Ahead to 2025 As the nation prepares to enter 2025, Lee remains optimistic about the future. He continues to call for unity and compassion, urging Filipinos to work together in overcoming challenges. “Sa patuloy po ninyong tiwala at pakikipagtulungan, marami pa tayong mapagtatagumpayan sa mga susunod na taon,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of collective effort in achieving shared goals. Lee’s dual focus on agriculture and health has set the stage for transformative change. By addressing the needs of two of the nation’s most critical sectors, he has created a roadmap for a more equitable and prosperous Philippines. A Legacy of Service and Advocacy Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee’s work in 2024 serves as a reminder that true leadership is defined by service. His dedication to healthcare and agriculture reflects his deep commitment to the Filipino people and his belief in a brighter future. As his advocacy continues, Lee’s legacy of compassion and determination remains an inspiration for generations to come. #ManoyWilbertWiseLee #AgricultureAndHealth #GamotMoSagotKo #FoodSecurityPH #HealthcareForFilipinos Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 06 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 02 Jan 2025 Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee: Marking 2024 with Milestones in Advocacy and Service Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News