(DC file photo)
MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) assured members that mammograms and breast and liver ultrasound examinations will remain covered under its outpatient cancer screening benefit package despite changes in accreditation requirements for healthcare providers.
In an advisory issued Friday, November 13, PhilHealth clarified that eligible members may continue accessing these diagnostic services through its Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) clinics.
Members requiring cancer screening may visit their registered YAKAP clinics for assessment and, when necessary, obtain referrals to PhilHealth-accredited cancer screening facilities.
“Members may visit their YAKAP Clinic and, if needed, be referred to a PhilHealth-accredited cancer screening facility,” PhilHealth said.
Under PhilHealth Circular No. 2024-0013, YAKAP clinics, formerly known as Konsulta Package Providers, were originally required to offer mammography and ultrasound services beginning January 1, 2027, as a condition for accreditation.
However, PhilHealth Advisory No. 2026-0058 removed the requirement for clinics to provide these procedures directly or through agreements with other healthcare facilities.
The adjustment follows PhilHealth Circular No. 2025-0014, which places mammograms and breast and liver ultrasound examinations under a separate outpatient cancer screening benefit package with established payment rates.
As a result, YAKAP clinics may qualify for accreditation in 2027 even without offering these diagnostic services on-site or securing a memorandum of agreement or service-level agreement with screening providers.
PhilHealth emphasized that the policy change does not remove cancer screening benefits for members but instead provides greater flexibility for healthcare facilities seeking accreditation.
The state health insurer maintained that members can continue accessing covered screening services through accredited facilities upon appropriate referral.
For inquiries about cancer screening benefits, accreditation requirements and available healthcare services, members and providers may contact PhilHealth’s 24/7 Corporate Action Center at (02) 8662-2588 or visit its official website at www.philhealth.gov.ph.
