President Marcos Highlights Zero-Balance Billing Progress
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. affirmed the success of the zero-balance billing program in Department of Health hospitals since its launch in May. The zero-balance billing initiative aims to ease the financial burden on patients by covering all hospital expenses, and officials reported it is moving forward smoothly.
During a visit to East Avenue Medical Center in Quezon City, Marcos, accompanied by Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, inspected the program’s implementation firsthand. “I’m happy to be able to report that the zero-billing program is proceeding well. Of course, in the beginning, we have to have an information drive, not only in hospitals but also for the patients, and I think we are succeeding,” the president said in a mix of Filipino and English.
Healthcare Workers Praised for Their Role
Marcos expressed his gratitude to health workers for their dedication to the program. “Thank you again to our doctors, our nurses, our medtechs, our non-medical staff. Thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you,” he said, acknowledging their crucial role in ensuring the program’s smooth operation.
More Than 2,400 Patients Benefited So Far
Since the president announced the zero-balance billing program during his fourth State of the Nation Address on July 28, over 2,400 patients at East Avenue Medical Center have already availed themselves of the benefits. Community members noted that the program has significantly reduced out-of-pocket expenses for many families.
Expanding Awareness and Efficient Implementation Nationwide
On August 18, President Marcos visited the Eastern Visayas Medical Center in Tacloban City, Leyte, urging for even more efficient implementation of the zero-balance billing program. “We just have to make sure that all hospitals across the Philippines know the procedure since this is new,” he emphasized.
Marcos has instructed Health Secretary Herbosa to ensure that all 83 DOH-run hospitals and four government-owned or -controlled corporation hospitals nationwide understand the zero-balance billing process thoroughly. Officials reported that this directive aims to standardize and streamline service delivery across the country.
Program Details and Coverage
The Department of Health revealed that zero-balance billing officially began on May 14, prior to the president’s public announcement. Under this program, patients are not required to submit additional documents or undergo interviews. The government fully covers all hospital costs, including medicines and professional fees.
However, the coverage currently applies only to basic or ward accommodations. Local leaders noted that while the program is a significant step toward accessible healthcare, further expansion of coverage is anticipated in the future.
For more news and updates on zero-balance billing program, visit Filipinokami.com.
