Lee Bats For Creation Of Ph Medicine Bank For Vulnerable Sectors
Lee Bats For Creation Of Ph Medicine Bank For Vulnerable Sectors Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee has filed a measure to establish an efficient collection of donated pharmaceuticals and healthcare supplies to be distributed to community health centers and various government-owned and operated institutional facilities for the benefit of Filipinos in need. At the sidelines of the 50th Anniversary of the Integrated Philippine Association of Optometrists Inc. (IPAO) where Lee attended as Guest Speaker today, he stressed the importance of an efficient collection and distribution of donated pharmaceuticals and healthcare supplies to ensure that vulnerable individuals can receive necessary medications. Under Lee’s House Bill (HB) No. 11082 or the “Medicine Bank Act”, a National Medicine Bank will be created which will serve as a Mega-Hub for appropriate storage for all medicines such as prescription, non-prescription, and over-the-counter drugs, and other donated items. “Kapag naisabatas ito, hindi na magiging pahirapan para sa ating mga kababayan, lalo na sa mga nasa malalayong lugar ang access sa gamot, pati na sa panahon ng kalamidad. Kasama sa mga pagbibigyan ng mga gamot ang community health centers at government facilities. Hindi na kakailanganin pang bumiyahe at gumastos nang malaki para makabili ng gamot,” Lee remarked. Through this measure, the Department of Health (DOH) is tasked to conduct a careful inventory of the donated materials and their maintenance. This aims to promote responsible management of excess medical resources, reducing waste and optimizing the use of available healthcare supplies. It can be recalled that during the Bicolano lawmaker’s interpellation on the proposed 2025 DOH Budget, he questioned the supply chain issues hindering marginalized Filipinos to access medicines and medical equipment in public hospitals. “Bilyon-bilyong piso ang pondo para sa gamot pero bakit laging problema ng ating mga kababayan na walang gamot sa mga public hospitals? Bakit pinahihirapan pa ang ating mga kababayan na maghanap at bumili ng mas mahal na gamot sa labas? Saan napunta yung bilyon-bilyong pondo? Ano bang klase ng gamot ang binibili, at hindi tumutugma sa mga gamot na kailangan sa mga public hospital?” Lee asked. “Marami po sa ating mga kababayan ang napipilitang hatiin na lang ang gamot o kaya tinitiis na lang ang karamdaman dahil walang pambili ng gamot o dahil sa kawalan ng access dito. Obligasyon ng gobyernong agarang tugunan ito.” “Gusto natin na mabawasan ang pangamba ng bawat Pilipino na kapag nagkasakit o may di-inaasahang pangyayari, may tutulong at sasagot sa gamot at pagpapagamot nila at ng kanilang mga mahal sa buhay. Ang gamot at pagpapagamot, dapat libre, dapat sagot na ng gobyerno,” he added. A staunch health advocate, Lee continues to monitor the implementation of the mentioned commitments he sealed from the DOH and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) during the House Budget Deliberations last September. The commitments include free optometric services and free eyeglasses and another 50% increase in PhilHealth benefits this November, free Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan, Computed Tomography (CT) scan, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and other diagnostic tests as part of outpatient services and at least 80% coverage for cancer treatments and procedures for heart diseases not later than December 31, 2024. The Bicolano lawmaker likewise successfully pushed for the 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits implemented last February 14. The benefit hike includes increasing the PhilHealth benefit package for hemodialysis from P2,600 to P6,350 per session and from 90 sessions per year to 156 sessions annually, as well as the increase in breast cancer treatment coverage from P100,000 to P1.4 million. Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 21 Nov 2024 Lee Bats For Creation Of Ph Medicine Bank For Vulnerable Sectors 20 Nov 2024 Lee Links Red Tape in Worsening Struggles in PH Healthcare 19 Nov 2024 Lee Advocates for Immediate Reform in Government Emergency Response Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs
Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee slammed the Department of Health (DOH) for being unable to provide a detailed and comprehensive plan to lower out-of-pocket expenses of Filipinos on healthcare which Secretary Ted Herbosa committed to submit by October 31, 2024 during the House deliberations of the 2025 National Budget. The said plan must include a comprehensive report on medicines and vaccines, ensuring availability of drugs and medicines in the DOH retained and specialty hospital starting fourth quarter of this year, and establishment of a monitoring system to ensure compliance and provide quarterly reports to the House Committee on Health and Committee on Appropriations. Further, Lee asked for a definite timeline in acquiring medical equipment for public hospitals. “Bilang Kalihim ng Kalusugan at Tagapangulo ng Board of Directors at Benefits Committee ng PhilHealth, hindi pwedeng hanggang sa pangako lang ang mga benepisyong pangkalusugan na opisyal naming nilagdaan at inilahad ko sa Kongreso,” said Lee referring to the health commitments signed by Herbosa and PhilHealth President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. “Tulad ng nauna ko nang sinabi, kung walang balak si Sec. Herbosa na tuparin ito, dapat magbitiw na siya sa puwesto. Hindi tayo titigil sa paniningil at pagpapanagot kung mauuwi ito sa pagpapaasa na naman sa milyon-milyong Pilipino sa mga serbisyong deserve at karapatan nilang makuha sa ilalim ng Universal Health Care Law,” the solon added. Lee wrote letters addressed to the Health Secretary reminding the agency of the said commitments, primarily the plan to reduce Filipino spending on hospitalization costs and health services. Nonetheless, as of writing, the said plan has not been submitted by DOH without any explanation on the delay. “Kailangan ng komprehensibong plano na pundasyon ng epektibong pagpapatupad ng hinihingi nating mga dagdag na mga benepisyo. Hindi pwedeng daanin na naman tayo sa pandidribble at tingi-tinging mga serbisyo,” he said. Lee further stated the other commitments nearing its deadline such as 50% across-the-board PhilHealth benefit increases and free pediatrics and adult prescription glasses that must be implemented this November. “Nakita na natin ang pag-usad sa dapat na implementasyon ng libreng check-up sa mata at pagpapagawa ng salamin ng PhilHealth. Naghihintay tayo para sa napagkasunduang 50% na dagdag na mga benepisyo na dapat na ring ipatupad ng DOH at PhilHealth ngayong buwan,” the solon from Bicol said. Apart from the mentioned commitments, it can be recalled that during the last House Plenary Debates on the DOH 2025 Budget on September 25, Lee secured other commitments such as free Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan, Computed Tomography (CT) scan, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and other diagnostic tests as part of outpatient services, and at least 80% coverage for cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and procedures for heart diseases not later than December 31, 2024. A staunch health advocate, the solon from Bicol successfully fought for the 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits which was implemented last February 14. These include increasing the PhilHealth benefit package for hemodialysis from P2,600 to P6,350 per session and from 90 sessions per year to 156 sessions annually, as well as the increase in breast cancer treatment coverage from P100,000 to P1.4M. “Sa laban para sa kalusugan ng mga Pilipino, hindi pwede ang mga serbisyong huwad at pagpapanggap lang. Dahil habang pinatatagal at ipinagkakait ang mga dagdag na mga benepisyong pangkalusugan, maraming Pilipino ang namamatay at lumalala ang sakit, na nagpapaguho sa mga pangarap ng pamilya at lalong nagpapalubog sa ating mga kababayan sa kahirapan,” Lee said. “Laban natin itong lahat para makamit ang pangarap at hangarin ng mga Pilipino na maging libre na ang gamot at pagpapagamot. Ibigay na ang kayang ibigay! Bilyon-bilyong pondo para sa kalusugan, gamitin sa kalusugan!” he added. Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos 05 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee Welcomes Inclusion of Free Eyeglasses in PhilHealth Benefits Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Lee Demands Urgent UHC Amendments For Better Health Benefits, Lower Member Contributions
Lee Demands Urgent UHC Amendments For Better Health Benefits, Lower Member Contributions “Gamot at pagpapagamot ng Pilipino, dapat sagot ng gobyerno!” This was the statement of Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee as he urged the passage of the amendments on the Republic Act (RA) No. 11223 or the “Universal Healthcare (UHC) Act” to institutionalize the comprehensive and appropriate increase in Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) benefits and lower the contribution of its members, among others. Lee filed House Bill No. 10995 which amends the UHC Act to resolve issues hampering genuine universal healthcare for Filipinos. “Various challenges and issues hinder the objectives of the UHC. These include lack of legal provisions that mandate the regular and periodic review of the responsiveness of benefit packages that should lower the out-of-pocket medical costs of Filipinos, inefficiencies in managing funds, and public health emergencies that disrupt the law’s implementation,” the Bicolano lawmaker lamented. “Ilang taon na mula nang naisabatas ang Universal Healthcare Act pero nandyan pa rin ang matinding pangamba ng mga Pilipino sa pagkakasakit dahil sa takot na malubog sa utang at kahirapan dahil walang pambili ng gamot o pambayad sa ospital. Hindi ito deserve ng Pilipino. Kailangang palakasin pa ang UHC Law para mas mabawasan ang pasanin at alalahanin ng ating mga kababayan sa kanilang kalusugan,” he added. Among the key changes included in Lee’s measure is the provision that the Health Technology Assessment Council will review and assess the amounts of each PhilHealth benefit package and ensure that these are up-to-date. Additionally, HB 10995 seeks to lower the premium contributions of PhilHealth members. Instead of the law’s mandated 5% premium in 2024 and 2025, the amendment pushes for 4% and 4.25% respectively. The proposed bill will likewise give the President the power to suspend PhilHealth premium contribution increases in a state of national emergency, public health emergency, or state of calamity. “Sa pagbubukas ng Kongreso, tututukan po natin ang agarang pagsasabatas ng panukalang ito na kailangan para maabot ang pinaka-layunin ng UHC,” Lee said. “Napakaraming pera ng PhilHealth, dapat ilaan ito di lang sa pagpapalawak ng mga benepisyo para sa mga Pilipino, kundi pati na rin sa pagpapababa ng kontribusyon na isa ring mabigat na pasanin ng marami nating kababayan,” he added. A staunch health advocate, Lee is at the forefront of holding the Department of Health (DOH) and PhilHealth accountable for its commitments to radically increase health benefits and for fighting for free diagnostic scans, free prescription eyeglasses and at least 80% coverage for cancer treatments and heart procedures, among others. Earlier, the solon from Bicol welcomed the issuance of a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) by the Supreme Court, halting the fourth and last tranche of PhilHealth fund transfer to the National Treasury, as there can be more funds for the radical expansion of PhilHealth benefits, which he has been consistently pushing for since last year. Lee successfully fought for the 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits, which was implemented last February 14. These include increasing the PhilHealth benefit package for hemodialysis from P2,600 to P6,350 per session and from 90 sessions per year to 156 sessions annually, as well as the increase in breast cancer treatment coverage from P100,000 to P1.4M. “Bawat araw ay marami tayong kababayan ang nangangambang magkasakit o nahihirapan sa karamdaman na hindi man lang nila maibili ng gamot o maipa-check up sa ospital dahil dagdag pa sa gastusin ng pamilya. Karapatan ito ng bawat Pilipino na dapat ipinagkakaloob ng UHC,” Lee remarked. “Hindi na puwede ang kulang-kulang na serbisyo at tingi-tinging dagdag sa mga benepisyong pangkalusugan. Hangad po natin na ang gamot at pagpapagamot ng bawat Pilipino, sagot na ng gobyerno. Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko! Yan ang ating ipinaglalaban, at patuloy natin itong tututukan hanggang sa maramdaman ng ating mga kababayan, lalo na ng mas nangangailangan,” he added. Healthcare Policy Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Action on Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits Amid Delays
Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Action on Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits Amid Delays With the delayed health benefits for coconut farmers, Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee has once again urged PhilHealth and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) to expedite the release of promised healthcare support. He emphasized that the CFITF Act, enacted in 2021, guarantees these benefits for coconut farmers, who are vital to the country’s agricultural success. Without the promised support, Lee noted that coconut farmers struggle to maintain their health and sustain their livelihoods, impacting their productivity and overall well being. Lee, who has been vocal about prioritizing farmers’ needs, pointed out that recent government goals to become the world’s leading coconut exporter cannot be achieved without investing in farmers’ health and security. By ensuring that coconut farmers receive healthcare support, the government can enable them to work more effectively and safely, which will, in turn, strengthen the industry. In an episode of Si Manoy ang Ninong Ko featuring PCA Administrator Dexter Respicio Buted, Lee reiterated the importance of fast-tracking livelihood and healthcare assistance for the sector. Beyond advocating for coconut farmers, Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee successfully pushed the increase of PhilHealth’s benefit packages for the broader Filipino population. With a 30% PhilHealth benefits increase secured earlier this year, Lee continues to push for the inclusion of essential diagnostic services and a further 50% benefits increase. “Bawasan natin ang pangamba ng mga magniniyog na magkasakit sa takot na lalong malubog sa utang. Ang benepisyo nila ay dapat ibigay na,” Lee urged, advocating for swift government action. #CoconutFarmersDeserveBetter #HealthAndWelfare #WilbertLeeForProgress #AGRI2025 Healthcare Access and Equity Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Cong. Wilbert “Manoy” Lee Pushes DOH and PhilHealth to Fulfill Commitments for Coconut Farmers Using Available Funds
Cong. Wilbert “Manoy” Lee Pushes DOH and PhilHealth to Fulfill Commitments for Coconut Farmers Using Available Funds Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee reminded PhilHealth and PCA to fulfill their mandated responsibilities to coconut farmers, calling for prompt implementation of health benefits promised under the CFITF Act. Signed into law in 2021, the CFITF Act requires that coconut farmers receive healthcare benefits to reduce the financial strain of medical expenses. Lee pointed out that despite the legislation, thousands of coconut farmers remain without these essential benefits, which affect their ability to maintain good health and support their families. In prior discussions with PhilHealth and PCA leaders, Lee emphasized that effective communication about these benefits is necessary so farmers are informed about their access to PhilHealth services. As a principal author of significant agricultural legislation, Lee has actively pursued solutions for both health and livelihood support for farmers, urging the immediate disbursement of funds for their welfare. He highlighted that without these resources, farmers continue to face significant financial stress, particularly in rural areas where healthcare access is limited. Lee also champions for expanding PhilHealth benefit packages for all Filipinos. He successfully pushed for a 30% increase in February, which included enhanced benefits for conditions like breast cancer and dialysis treatments. He is now calling on PhilHealth to further expand coverage to diagnostic tests such as MRI, CT Scan, and PET Scan. “Ang pondo para sa mga magniniyog ay para sa kanila. Huwag nating ipagkait ang karampatang serbisyo at tulong na matagal na nilang hinihintay,” Lee said, reiterating his commitment to protecting farmers’ welfare. #HealthcareForFarmers #SupportLocalIndustries #WilbertLeeAdvocacy #AGRIList Healthcare Policy Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Lee Hails SC TRO On PhilHealth Fund Transfer, Renews Call For Expanded Health Benefits
Lee Hails SC TRO On PhilHealth Fund Transfer, Renews Call For Expanded Health Benefits “Ang pondo para sa kalusugan, gamitin para sa kalusugan!” This was reiterated by Cong. Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee as he welcomed the Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) issued by the Supreme Court to stop the transfer of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) excess funds to the National Treasury that he vehemently opposed. “Natutuwa po tayo sa desisyon na ito ng Korte Suprema na pagpapahinto sa paglipat ng pondo ng PhilHealth. Mula nga po nang na-expose natin yung sobra-sobrang pondo ng PhilHealth noong nakaraang taon pa, paulit-ulit tayong nangalampag, at ipinaglaban nating gamitin ang pondo para agarang tugunan ang kulang-kulang na serbisyong pangkalusugan para sa mga Pilipino,” said Lee who is currently leading various relief efforts in Bicol and other parts of the country heavily affected by severe tropical storm Kristine. The TRO will stop the supposed final tranche of the PhilHealth fund transfer this November amounting to P29.9 billion. As of Oct. 16, P60 billion had already been transferred to the National Treasury as ordered by the Department of Finance (DOF) through its Circular No. 003-2024. The Bicolano lawmaker opposed the said transfer, saying “Naninindigan po tayo na ang pondo para sa kalusugan ay hindi dapat gamitin sa mga programang hindi kasinghalaga ng kalusugan ng mga Pilipino, o yung wala namang mamamatay kung hindi gagawin.” “Imbes na sa PhilHealth bumawas ng pondo, kunin na lang sa iba pang GOCCs na may excess funds at hindi bahagi ng mandato ang social services. Dapat unahin ang dagdag na mga benepisyo mula sa PhilHealth. Kapag may sobra pa, pwedeng i-suspend o babaan ang contribution ng mga ordinaryong empleyado,” the solon earlier said. For Lee, with PhilHealth’s billions of available funds, the commitments he secured from the Department of Health (DOH) and the state health insurer to make radical improvements in the healthcare sector should be immediately implemented. “Walang dahilan ang DOH at PhilHealth na hindi tuparin ang mga itinulak natin at napagkasunduang pagpapalawak ng benepisyong pangkalusugan para sa mga Pilipino.” It can be recalled that during the last House Plenary Debates on the 2025 DOH Budget, Lee secured significant commitments signed by DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa and PhilHealth President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. Among the commitments sealed are: Free diagnostic tests such as Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan, Computed Tomography (CT) scan and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) as part of outpatient services not later than December 31, 2024; At least 80% coverage for cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and procedures for heart diseases not later than December 31, 2024; 50% across-the-board PhilHealth benefit increases effective November 2024; Free pediatrics and adult prescription glasses effective November 2024. A staunch health advocate, the solon from Bicol successfully fought for the 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits which was implemented last February 14. These include increasing the PhilHealth benefit package for hemodialysis from P2,600 to P6,350 per session and from 90 sessions per year to 156 sessions annually, as well as the increase in breast cancer treatment coverage from P100,000 to P1.4M. “Ang gobyerno, hindi dapat pabigat sa taumbayan. Tungkulin nitong pagaanin ang pasanin ng ating mga kababayan, kasama na ang pagbura sa kanilang pangamba na magkasakit dahil sa takot na lalong malubog sa kahirapan dahil walang perang pambili ng gamot o pambayad sa ospital,” Lee said. “Marami pang kulang, hindi pwedeng tingi-tingi ang mga serbisyong pangkalusugan. Hangad po natin na ang gamot at pagpapagamot ng bawat Pilipino, sagot na ng gobyerno. Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko. Yan ang ating ipinaglalaban, at hindi po natin ito tatantanan!” he added. Healthcare Access and Equity Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Cong. Wilbert “Manoy” T. Lee Monitors DOH, PhilHealth Promises for Increased Health Benefits
Cong. Wilbert “Manoy” T. Lee Monitors DOH, PhilHealth Promises for Increased Health Benefits With PhilHealth’s recent fund reallocation, Cong. Wilbert “Manoy” T. Lee reminded DOH and PhilHealth of their commitments, including 80% coverage for cancer treatments, free diagnostic tests, and a 50% increase in PhilHealth benefits by November. Lee highlighted the urgency for implementation, pointing out that millions of Filipinos face delays in receiving essential healthcare services. “Hindi dapat pinatatagal ang mga serbisyong kailangan ng mga Pilipino,” Lee remarked, stressing the importance of quick action. #AffordableHealthcare #PhilHealthEnhancements #WilbertLeeForBetterHealth #HealthBenefitsNow Healthcare Policy Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Cong. Wilbert “Manoy” T. Lee to DOH and PhilHealth: “Use Health Funds for People’s Health”
Cong. Wilbert “Manoy” T. Lee to DOH and PhilHealth: “Use Health Funds for People’s Health” As the P30 billion PhilHealth fund is transferred to support other government appropriations, Cong. Wilbert “Manoy” T. Lee keeps an eye on DOH and PhilHealth’s benefit expansion commitments. Lee, who successfully pushed for a 30% PhilHealth increase last February, urges the departments to focus on timely implementation. “Hindi dapat pabigat sa taumbayan,” Lee stated, advocating for immediate and comprehensive healthcare access for all Filipinos. #HealthcareExpansion #PhilHealthForThePeople #WilbertLeeHealthAdvocate #BudgetForHealth Healthcare Policy Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Free Prescription Glasses, Optometric Services Lee Fought For To Benefit Millions Of Filipinos
Free Prescription Glasses, Optometric Services Lee Fought For To Benefit Millions Of Filipinos Cong. Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee who has been fighting for free optometric services and free eyeglasses since early this year, welcomed the inclusion of said services in PhilHealth benefit packages starting this November as announced by the state health insurer. Free optometric services and prescription glasses are among the health commitments secured by Lee and signed by Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Ted Herbosa and PhilHealth President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. before the approval of the DOH budget last September 25, 2024 at the House of Representatives. “This is long overdue. Masaya po tayong nalalapit na ang katuparan nito kung saan mahigit 40 milyong Pilipino ang makikinabang, mula bata hanggang sa ating mga senior citizens,” said Lee who is now in Bicol leading the relief operations for fellow Bicolanos who were heavily affected by the onslaught of severe tropical storm Kristine. The lawmaker is also distributing relief goods in other parts of the country affected by the calamity. “Malaking tulong ito lalo na sa mahihirap nating kababayan na tinitiis na lang ang malabong paningin o lumalala ang problema sa mata hanggang mabulag dahil walang pera para magpacheck-up at magpagawa ng salamin,” he added. The said pronouncement from the PhilHealth complies with the deadline that Lee set in the commitment letter to cover pediatrics and adult prescription glasses not later than November 30, 2024. Integrated Philippine Association of Optometrists (IPAO) President Dr. John Nakpil said that the commitment of the DOH and PhilHealth spearheaded by Lee led to the creation of a technical working group (TWG) to develop the guidelines for the implementation of free prescription glasses and optometric services. It can be recalled that as early as March 5, 2024, Lee filed House Resolution (HR) No. 1623 urging PhilHealth to include optometric services in its benefit package. According to IPAO Chairman Dr. Charlie Ho, Lee’s HR 1623 “paved the way and advocated for Filipinos’ right to comprehensive optometric services and free prescription eyeglasses to improve productivity and reduce the financial burden of Filipinos.” A staunch health advocate, Lee described the move as a significant step towards achieving broader healthcare access as part of the Universal Health Care Law, particularly for Filipinos struggling with vision problems. “Malaking tulong ito sa productivity ng ating mga kababayan. Magbibigay liwanag ito hindi lang sa paningin, kundi pati na sa pang-araw-araw na pamumuhay at kinabukasan ng milyon-milyon nating kababayan,” he said. Other health services included in the commitments from DOH and PhilHealth, among others, are: Free diagnostic tests such as Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan, Computed Tomography (CT) scan and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) as part of outpatient services not later than December 31, 2024; At least 80% coverage for cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and procedures for heart diseases not later than December 31, 2024; 50% across-the-board PhilHealth benefit increases effective November 2024; “Patuloy po nating bantayan ang pagtupad ng DOH at PhilHealth sa mga ipinangako nilang serbisyong pangkalusugan na kailangang-kailangan at matagal nang inaasam ng ating mga kababayan. Huwag natin itong tantanan. Laban natin itong lahat!” Lee stated. Healthcare Access and Equity Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Lee Urges PhilHealth, PCA To Expedite Implementation Of Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits
Lee Urges PhilHealth, PCA To Expedite Implementation Of Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee on Monday called on the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) to fast-track the implementation of health benefits for coconut farmers which has been delayed for several years. The said benefits are mandated by Republic Act (RA) No. 11524 or the Coconut Farmers and Industry Trust Fund (CFITF) Act enacted in 2021 to ease the plight of coconut farmers through support on their health and livelihood. “Dapat agaran nang maipatupad ang mga benepisyong pangkalusugan para sa mga magniniyog na matagal na dapat naipagkaloob gamit ang pondo para sa kanila. Sila ang pundasyon ng isa sa mga pangunahing industriya sa bansa. Mapapalakas pa lalo ang industriya ng niyog kung pinapangalagaan ang kalusugan at kabuhayan ng mga magniniyog,” Lee said. Citing President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos’ goal for the country to become the world’s top coconut exporter, the Bicolano lawmaker reiterated: “Kung seryoso tayo na maabot ang layuning ito, hindi na dapat patagalin pa ang pagpapatupad ng mga dagdag na mga serbisyong pangkalusugan para sa ating mga magniniyog.” It can be recalled that on March 1, 2024, Lee had a meeting with the leadership of PhilHealth and PCA to discuss the importance of informing the coconut farmers and providing them the health benefits that they deserve saying: “Malaking tulong na alam ng ating mga magniniyog ang mga serbisyo ng PhilHealth para mabawasan ang kanilang pasanin at pangamba sa oras na sila ay magkasakit o magpa-ospital.” On April 4, 2024, the solon from Bicol filed House Resolution (HR) No. 1673 urging the Congress to thoroughly investigate the delayed implementation of the health and medical services for the coconut farmers and their families prescribed by the CFITF Act and Executive Order (EO) No. 172. Lee also filed HR No. 954 on May 9, 2023 upon discovering that only 34% of the total Coco Levy Fund was disbursed for fiscal year 2022 to provide grants and subsidies for the livelihood and welfare of coconut farmers. These measures are results of Lee’s constant collaboration with PhilHealth and PCA in crafting policies to ensure that Filipino coconut farmers will get what they deserve. Further, in May 26, 2024 episode of public service program “Si Manoy ang Ninong Ko,” where PCA Administrator Dexter Respicio Buted served as one of the resource persons, Lee stressed the need to prioritize the implementation of essential services for coconut farmers including livelihood assistance and health benefits, among others. A staunch health advocate, he successfully pushed for a 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits last February 14, after more than a decade of these not being adjusted or reviewed by the DOH and PhilHealth. These include increasing the PhilHealth benefit package for hemodialysis from P2,600 to P6,350 per session and from 90 sessions per year to 156 sessions annually, as well as the increase in breast cancer treatment coverage from P100,000 to P1.4M. He is likewise at the forefront of enhancing PhilHealth benefit packages by including costly diagnostic scans such as PET Scan, CT Scan and MRI, providing free optometric services, and increasing the state health insurer’s benefits by another 50%. Last House budget deliberations, through his persistent efforts, Lee was able to secure commitments from the Department of Health (DOH) and PhilHealth in implementing expanded health services for all Filipinos. “Ang pondo para sa mga magniniyog, dapat gamitin para sa serbisyo at benepisyo para sa mga magniniyog. Matagal na itong ipinagkait sa kanila at malaking kasalanan kung patatagalin pa ito,” Lee said. “Bawasan natin ang kanilang pangamba, ng kanilang pamilya at ng lahat ng Pilipino sa pagkakasakit sa takot na lalong malubog sa utang at kahirapan dahil walang pambili ng gamot o pambayad sa ospital. Huwag na nating pabigatin pa ang pasanin ng ating mga kababayan. Gawin na natin!” Lee remarked. Healthcare Policy Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News