DOH Eyes Free Medical Services in Public Hospitals 

The Department of Health (DOH) is considering a landmark healthcare reform that could make medical services free in all government-run hospitals nationwide. Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa announced that the DOH is studying the feasibility of implementing a no-balance billing policy, ensuring that low-income Filipinos receive medical care without out-of-pocket expenses.

This initiative aligns with the Universal Health Care (UHC) law, aiming to reduce financial barriers to healthcare and expand access to essential medical services.

How Free Medical Services Will Work

Under the proposed plan, 90% of medical services in DOH-run hospitals will be fully covered, funded by sin tax revenues.

Key Features of the Program:

✔ No-Balance Billing Policy – Patients will not pay anything for medical services in ward and semi-private hospital rooms.
✔ Sin Tax Funding – Revenues from tobacco and alcohol taxes will finance hospital operations.
✔ Expanded Coverage for 4Ps Beneficiaries – Members of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) will receive priority access to free healthcare.
✔ Legislative Support – The DOH is working with Congress to secure additional funding for the program.

Who Qualifies for Free Medical Services?

The program will prioritize low-income Filipinos, including:

✅ 4Ps Beneficiaries – Families enrolled in the government’s conditional cash transfer program.
✅ Indigent Patients – Those classified as financially incapable by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth).
✅ Senior Citizens & PWDs – Vulnerable groups requiring specialized medical care.
✅ Emergency Cases – Patients needing urgent medical attention in government hospitals.

Impact on Universal Health Care (UHC) Implementation

The UHC law, passed in 2019, aims to provide affordable healthcare for all Filipinos. However, funding shortages have delayed full implementation, leaving many still paying high out-of-pocket costs.

How Free Medical Services Strengthen UHC:

✔ Reduces Financial Burden – Ensures Filipinos receive medical care without worrying about costs.
✔ Improves Hospital Efficiency – Streamlines patient admissions and billing processes.
✔ Expands Healthcare Access – Encourages more Filipinos to seek medical attention early.

Challenges & Next Steps for the Program

Despite its potential benefits, the program faces several challenges:

🔹 Funding Sustainability – Ensuring sin tax revenues remain sufficient to cover hospital expenses.
🔹 Hospital Capacity Issues – Addressing overcrowding and staffing shortages in government hospitals.
🔹 Legislative Approval – Securing Congressional support for additional healthcare funding.

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa is in discussions with hospital directors and lawmakers, aiming to finalize the policy framework within the next few weeks.

How Filipinos Can Benefit from the Program

🏥 Visit DOH-Run Hospitals – Check if your local government hospital is part of the program.
📢 Stay Informed – Follow DOH announcements for updates on free medical services.
💡 Advocate for Healthcare Access – Support legislation that strengthens UHC implementation.

The DOH’s plan for free medical services in public hospitals marks a major step toward healthcare equity in the Philippines. By eliminating financial barriers, the government aims to ensure every Filipino receives quality medical care, regardless of economic status.