PhilHealth coverage for foreign nationals soon

FOREIGNERS and even former Filipinos can now apply for PhilHealth and avail of health insurance benefits in times of medical needs starting July 1.

These foreign and former Filipinos who opt to retiree in the country and other foreigners who are working / residing in the Philippines will be covered under the Informal Economy of PhilHealth.

“PhilHealth services and benefits are not only relevant to every Filipino household but will also be felt by foreigners seeking quality health care services anywhere in the country, said Lourdes F. Diocson, Head of PhilHealth in Region 6 adding that this membership expansion is part of the Memorandum of Understanding between PhilHealth and Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), an attached agency of the Department of Tourism.

PhilHealth policy provides that foreign nationals are required to enroll as member and are not qualified as dependent of their Filipino spouse.

For foreign retire es registered in PRA, submission of a properly accomplished Phil Health Member Registration Form (PMRF) and valid Special Resident Retiree’s Visa or PRA issued ID card to PRA head office or to any of its satellite office is needed with an annual premium contribution rate of P15,000.00.

On the other hand, other foreign citizens working and/ or residing in the Philippines shall submit a valid Alien Certificate of Registration ( ACR) I- Card issued by the Bureau of Immigration and a properly filled-out PMRF to the nearest PhilHealth Local Health Insurance Office (LHIO) and pay the annual premium contribution of P17,000.00.

Premium contributions for both foreign retirees and citizens working and/ or residing in the country may be paid quarterly, semi-annually or annually.

Moreover, members and their qualified dependents are entitled to avail of In- Patient, Out-Patient and other Special Benefit Packages when confined in any of the accredited health care facility except for Z Benefit Package and special privileges for Women About to Give Birth. PhilHealth also excludes reimbursement for confinements abroad of these foreign members./