Philhealth defers premium increase

Rappler.com

This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

Philhealth defers the implementation of the increase in annual premium for individually paying members

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Health Insurance Corp (Philhealth) has deferred the implementation of the increase in the premium contribution of  “individually paying members” (IPMs) from July 1 to October 1.

The proposed increase is from the existing P1,200 annual premium to P2,400. It was designed to improve the “financial risk protection” of individually paying members by expanding benefit packages for them.

The circular applies to IPMs or self-employed and voluntary members, including those under the “Kalusugang Sigurado at Abot-Kaya sa Philhealth Insurance program” and the group enrollment scheme.”

Not covered are the self-employed professionals and other IPMs earning an average gross monthly income of more than P25,000.

Various sectors have opposed the proposed increase in IPM premium. Thus, Philhealth decided to conduct more consultations on the matter.

A Circular No. 032 signed by Philhealth president and CEO Dr Eduardo Banzon said the deferment would give way to further consultation with concerned sectors and allow the agency to make adjustments in the program.

“Various sectors have continuously and vigorously pushed and demanded for a reconsideration of the decision to increase the annual premium contribution. In response thereto and so as to provide more time for further consultation and program enhancements, the PhilHealth Management has resolved to defer the July 1, 2012 effectivity of premium increase until Oct. 1, 2012,” the circular stated.

Banzon stressed that the proposed increase “reinforces the strategic directions designed to ensure greater efficiency in the delivery of higher quality health care services that is affordable, acceptable, accessible and adequate.” – Rappler.com


More in Nation:

 

Elsewhere in Rappler:

Add a comment

Sort by

There are no comments yet. Add your comment to start the conversation.

Summarize this article with AI

How does this make you feel?

Loading
Download the Rappler App!