Cayetano pushes for improved healthcare access, equity as Senate amends UHC Act

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano continues to advocate for enhanced healthcare access for all Filipinos as the Senate discusses proposed amendments to the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act on Thursday, February 15, 2024.

The UHC Act, officially known as Republic Act No. 11223, was signed into law in February

2019 and aimed to provide equitable access to quality and affordable healthcare for all Filipinos.

However, the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted its full implementation.

Now that it is back for Senate review,

Cayetano will provide more insights to improve it, having authored and co-authored several bills meant to strengthen the country's healthcare syst em.

Among his legislative proposals is the establishment of a health passport system, which aims to streamline access to healthcare services for individuals across different healthcare facilities.

This initiative seeks to address logistical challenges and ensure continuity of care, particularly for patients requiring specialized treatment or consultations.

"In the event of emergencies, this will also be a handy tool that can be essential in saving lives," Cayetano said.

The independent senator also champions the establishment of barangay health centers through the Health Center in All Barangays Act (Senate Bill No. 303, and the Super Health Centers in All Cities and Municipalities Act (SB No. 304) to offer primary healthcare services to communities.

"Around 47.2 percent of the barangays in the Philippines do not have health centers. I think it is essential that the DOH come out with a plan of how to be able to build, staff, and fully equip health centers precisely so that we can build a good foundation for our primary healthcare system and better take care of our mothers, their children, and senior citizens. Ito (barangay health centers) po y'ung bahay ng bawat komunidad," he said.

Subsequently, Cayetano pushes for regular employment status and better pay for Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) who served as the “bridgeway of communication between health centers and constituents” during the COVID-19 pandemic through the Mahal Ko, the Barangay Health Worker ko Law (SB No. 68).

While actively advocating for improved UHC legislation, Cayetano continues to provide direct assistance to patients across the country through his Medical Cavaran program which offers Guarantee Letters to those in need to cover their medical and hospital bills.