DOH Has Enough Funds to Pay Hospitals, Malacañang Confirms
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) has enough funds to pay private hospitals for the medical services and treatments provided to indigent patients, Malacañang assured on Monday.
During a briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro addressed concerns about some hospitals allegedly refusing to honor government guarantee letters for patients unable to settle their hospital bills. “The government is not encountering any problems when it comes to paying the bills of our fellow citizens covered by guarantee letters,” Castro said.
Hospitals Asked to Submit Complete Documents
Castro explained that 39 hospitals have pending requirements before DOH can process their payments. “For those hospitals requesting payment, just complete your documents, as the DOH has assured us there are sufficient funds,” she added.
Under the Universal Health Care Act and a memorandum of agreement between the DOH and private hospitals, the latter must reserve 10 percent of their authorized bed capacity for indigent patients. Moreover, poor patients can avail themselves of zero hospital billing through the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth).
Local sources noted that the DOH remains committed to supporting hospitals that provide care to the less fortunate, ensuring no delay in reimbursements. This funding sufficiency aims to ease the burden on hospitals and guarantee access to treatment for indigent Filipinos.
Universal Health Care and Hospital Obligations
According to health officials, the Universal Health Care Act mandates private hospitals to dedicate a portion of their beds for poor patients. This policy supports equitable access and reinforces the government’s guarantee to cover medical expenses for those who cannot afford them.
Moreover, the partnership between DOH and private hospitals is designed to protect patients from financial hardship. The comprehensive coverage through PhilHealth ensures indigent patients do not face hospital bills, which aligns with the government’s goal of inclusive health services.
As hospitals comply with documentary requirements, DOH funding will be promptly released, allowing these facilities to continue providing essential care without financial hesitation.
For more news and updates on health funding and hospital services, visit Filipinokami.com.