Philippine Health Insurance Corporation members will continue to receive 21 essential medicines next year as the state insurer confirmed the extension of coverage under its Yaman ng Kalusugan (YAKAP) Program for 2026.
In an advisory released mid-January, PhilHealth said the medicines will remain accessible through primary care facilities accredited under YAKAP across the country.
The insurer explained that YAKAP forms part of its expanded primary care benefits, which include medical consultations, selected laboratory and cancer screening tests, and prescription drugs focused on prevention and early detection of illness.
PhilHealth stressed that members will follow the same process in obtaining the medicines, which will still be dispensed through their chosen YAKAP-accredited primary care provider.
Accredited health facilities, meanwhile, were reminded to maintain adequate stocks, as the ability to supply the covered medicines remains a key requirement for YAKAP accreditation.
The agency added that it is reviewing possible enhancements to YAKAP and the Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT) Program, noting that any adjustments will be communicated through official issuances.
The advisory, signed by PhilHealth President and Chief Executive Officer Edwin Mercado, said the continued coverage is issued to guide both members and providers on the uninterrupted delivery of essential outpatient medicines.