By Lane Afable, News Editor
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday visited The Medical City in Ortigas, Pasig City, to personally assess hospital services and the implementation of expanded benefits of the Philippines Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth).
The visit underscored the administration’s ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare access for Filipinos through expanded PhilHealth coverage.
The Palace said the visit highlighted the government’s continuing efforts to strengthen healthcare accessibility through enhanced PhilHealth coverage, including the expanded maternity care package and outpatient emergency care benefits.
The expanded PhilHealth benefits include improved maternity care packages and outpatient emergency care coverage.
The President was accompanied by PhilHealth President and CEO Dr. Edwin Mercado during the visit.
Upon arriving at the hospital, President Marcos inspected both the urgent and non-urgent care areas, where he interacted with patients and their families waiting.
The President later proceeded to the 10th floor to visit the male surgery ward, the mother-and-baby-friendly room, and the female surgery ward.
The inspection allowed the Chief Executive to personally observe how PhilHealth-supported services are being delivered to patients.
The delegation was welcomed by Dr. Stuart Bennett, who led the walkthrough of the hospital’s Alfredo R.A. Bengzon Patient Access Ward and its state-of-the-art Emergency Department.
During the tour, President Marcos and Dr. Mercado met with several patients who shared how their PhilHealth membership helped ease the financial burden of hospitalization and medical care.
The President’s visit also focused on how expanded PhilHealth benefits are improving access to essential services, particularly in emergency care and maternal health.
The Alfredo R.A. Bengzon Patient Access Ward was established to provide accessible and quality healthcare services and promote a more inclusive healthcare experience.
Meanwhile, The Medical City’s Emergency Department continues to deliver advanced, comprehensive emergency care through modern facilities and specialized medical teams accredited by Joint Commission International.
Dr. Bennett said The Medical City remains committed to supporting initiatives that improve access to quality healthcare for Filipinos. He added that stronger partnerships with PhilHealth and the government are helping extend meaningful healthcare support to more patients and families.
The visit underscored the shared commitment of the government, PhilHealth, and healthcare institutions to make quality healthcare more accessible, responsive, and affordable for all Filipinos.
