In a significant move to bolster the nation’s healthcare framework, the Philippine House of Representatives has passed a bill on its third reading with a strong majority. The legislation, known as House Bill 11357, aims to refine the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act, garnering 191 votes in favor, with only three against and no abstentions. This bill, identified as a priority by the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC), seeks to enhance the efficiency, equity, and readiness for public health emergencies across the country.
Key amendments proposed by the House include a reduction in the premium contribution rate for members of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) from 5 percent to 3.5 percent. This rate will be subject to annual adjustments based on actuarial studies, which will be scrutinized by an independent, non-governmental body and subsequently approved by Congress during the budget process.
The bill also introduces significant changes for migrant workers, exempting them from premium payments. Instead, their employers will cover half of the required contributions, with the national government funding the remainder. To safeguard the financial health of PhilHealth, the legislation prohibits the transfer of its reserve funds or income to the national government or any government-controlled entities.
Further financial measures include the exclusive allocation of unused premium subsidies for indirect contributors towards benefit enhancements. Additionally, the bill sets a ceiling on PhilHealth’s administrative expenses at 7.5 percent of the total healthcare costs reimbursed in the previous year.
To stimulate competition and innovation in healthcare delivery, the bill encourages public-private partnerships and competitive bidding for the provision of PhilHealth benefits to specific membership groups. It also empowers local government units (LGUs) to establish or maintain Special Health Funds, aimed at improving localized healthcare services.
In terms of coordination, the proposed legislation calls for the creation of the Universal Health Care Coordinating Council. This body will oversee the swift implementation of the UHC Act and act as a central hub for policy and operational collaboration among various agencies and organizations.
Other enhancements include the strengthening of the Health Technology Assessment process, the requirement for PhilHealth to maintain an Electronic National Health Records System, and the imposition of stricter penalties for violations of the UHC Act.