Bong Go seeks to make essential medicines more accessible and affordable to Filipinos
DURING a public hearing conducted by the Senate Committee on Health, joint with the Committees on Finance and Tourism, on Tuesday, April 2, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go emphasized the importance of enhancing the availability and affordability of essential medicines for Filipinos through Philhealth’s initiatives.
Furthermore, he voiced his support for its various programs, notably the Konsulta program, underscoring his commitment to improving healthcare accessibility.
The hearing opened with Go addressing a critical concern regarding the affordability and accessibility of medicines. “Can Philhealth also share its planned programs on making medicines affordable and accessible? Meron bang mako-cover ang Philhealth na libreng medisina, itong mga generic medicines?”
Go brought up Executive Order No. 104 issued by former president Rodrigo Duterte, which aimed to set maximum drug retail prices (MDRP) for over 100 essential drugs and medicines, questioning, “What is the status of the implementation of the MDRP?”
Responding to Go’s inquiries, Philhealth Chief Emmanuel Ledesma affirmed the availability of free medicines through Philhealth. Dr. Clementine Bautista, Acting Senior Vice President of the Philhealth, also stated, “Ngayon po, kasama na po sa Konsulta package, ‘yung gamot po for the primary care.”
Go delved deeper, seeking clarifications on the types of medicines covered, their sources, and the mechanisms through which the public can access them. “Saan galing ‘yung medisina?...hindi nila alam saan sila pupunta at hihingi ng tulong.”
He vividly depicted the plight of Filipinos, who, with prescription in hand, are often lost in navigating the healthcare system to find the assistance they need.
“Alam mo, doktora, maraming lumalapit sa akin, naghahawak ng mga reseta. Hindi nila alam saan sila pupunta at hihingi ng tulong,” he articulated, emphasizing the gap between policy announcements and their reach to the end beneficiaries.
Bautista responded by emphasizing the inclusiveness of the Konsulta package, noting that it encompasses 21 medications designed to address the common illnesses Filipinos face. This package provides coverage for a range of ailments, including hypertension and diabetes, and includes the provision of antibiotics, showcasing its comprehensive approach to health care.
Bautista also mentioned the introduction of the Guaranteed Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment program, which seeks to broaden the scope of medications covered from 21 to an extensive list of 53 outpatient medications.
Go then pointed out the need for greater dissemination of information and the expansion of accredited facilities where people can avail themselves of free medications and consultations.
He highlighted the potential of Super Health Centers in bridging this gap, urging Philhealth to support and promote the accreditation of more centers to ensure the Konsulta program’s benefits reach more Filipinos.
To further improve the healthcare system and bring primary care, consultations, and early disease detection closer to communities, Go earlier advocated for establishing more Super Health Centers nationwide. Through the concerted efforts of Go, fellow lawmakers, the Department of Health led by Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, and local government units, adequate funding was allocated for more than 700 Super Health Centers nationwide.
Ledesma acknowledged the program’s shortcomings in reach and registration, committing to intensified efforts in partnership with stakeholders to enhance program visibility and accessibility, especially in remote areas.
The Philhealth also presented its GAMOT or Outpatient Drug Benefit Package during the hearing. The package, aligning with the Universal Health Care law’s objectives, introduces 53 outpatient medications aimed at primary care.
“So, this benefit package intends to help decrease the out-of-pocket expense related to outpatient medicines. And this is also intended to complement the Philhealth Konsulta as a service arm for the delivery of medicines,” Bautista said.
Go emphasized the need for transparent and rapid implementation of these programs to ensure they reach the people in need without delay. “So, important rito ‘yung close coordination between DOH [Department of Health] and Philhealth,” he reminded.
He then questioned the increase in Konsulta rates, the assurance of Philhealth’s financial stability, and the potential for future enhancements to the benefit packages. Go underscored the importance of transparency, accountability, and responsiveness in Philhealth’s operations, especially concerning its financial management and service delivery enhancements.
Ledesma assured,“yes po.we can assure po. And we have full support of Malacañang po, of DOH [Department of Health] Secretary Ted [Herbosa], and, of House Speaker Martin [Romualdez] po, and kayo po. So, kakayanin po. Kakayanin ng Philhealth.”
As the hearing concluded, Bong Go expressed his gratitude and optimism towards the initiatives presented by Philhealth. He echoed a commitment to overseeing and supporting health programs that benefit the Filipino people, especially the underprivileged.
“Maraming salamat...overwhelmed lang ako sa aking kasiyahan. And then lastly, salamat. Full support po ako as your Chairman sa Committee on Health and with the oversight function sa ating Philhealth,” concluded Go.