As temperatures begin to climb with the dry season, PhilHealth is assuring members that financial protection is readily available for a range of heat-related and summer illnesses, helping Filipinos get needed treatment without bearing the full cost of hospitalization.
The state insurer said its inpatient benefit packages remain accessible in PhilHealth-accredited hospitals nationwide, covering illnesses that commonly rise during the hotter months. These include serious heat-related conditions such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat collapse, heat cramps, and sunstroke, with a benefit package of Php 12,675.
Members may also avail themselves of coverage for heat fatigue and other effects of heat and light worth Php 18,135, while cases of moderate to severe dehydration are covered up to Php 7,800.
PhilHealth also reminded the public that several other illnesses often associated with the summer season are likewise included in its benefit packages. These include varicella or chickenpox without complication at Php 7,800, typhoid fever at Php 19,500, sore eyes or conjunctivitis at Php 16,575, and infectious diarrhea or acute gastroenteritis at Php 11,700.
Coverage is also available for toxic reactions caused by contact with fish and other marine animals such as jellyfish, sea anemone, shellfish, and starfish, with a package worth Php 11,115.
Beyond confinement benefits, PhilHealth emphasized that emergency medical needs, whether heat-related or otherwise, are also covered under its Outpatient Emergency Care Benefit Package. This can be accessed through accredited Level 1, 2, and 3 hospitals, allowing members to receive urgent care when immediate medical attention is needed.
PhilHealth President and CEO Dr. Edwin M. Mercado said the agency remains prepared to help Filipinos cope with seasonal health risks.
“PhilHealth stands ready to protect every Filipino. We want all members to know that coverage is available to help ensure their safety, wherever they are and regardless of the season,” Mercado said.
With extreme heat expected to affect more communities during the dry months, PhilHealth urged members to stay alert, take precautions, and remember that health coverage is in place should emergencies arise.
For inquiries, members may contact PhilHealth through its 24/7 touch points at (02) 866-225-88, Smart numbers 0998-857-2957 and 0968-865-4670, and Globe numbers 0917-1275987 and 0917-1109812.
