PhilHealth, private hospitals strengthen ties for better healthcare

The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) recently met with private hospital groups and national health associations to enhance coordination and improve healthcare services for Filipinos.

PhilHealth President and CEO Edwin Mercado led discussions with representatives from Metro Pacific Health Corp., Mount Grace Hospital Group, Unilab Foundation, AC Health, St. Luke’s Medical Center, The Medical City, the Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines, Inc., and the Philippine Hospital Association.

The meeting centered on PhilHealth’s commitment to streamlining processes, reducing inefficiencies, and ensuring timely payment of hospital claims. Mercado and the hospital executives also explored ways to expand access to primary care.

“We recognize the significant role that private hospitals play in delivering quality health care services to Filipinos. We can only leverage their capacities when we build a sphere of trust and effective coordination,” Mercado emphasized.

Integrating private hospitals into primary care services is expected to accelerate the completion of Health Care Provider Networks, a key initiative under Universal Health Care.

Mercado also plans to hold similar consultations with government hospitals managed by the Department of Health and local government units.