Manila: The Department of Health (DOH) will soon exclude road violators from its zero balance billing policy in public hospitals, Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa announced on Thursday. In a joint press conference with Jean Todt, the United Nations Secretary-General's Special Envoy for Road Safety, Herbosa stated that individuals who violate basic road safety rules will no longer be eligible for free hospitalization under the program.
According to Philippines News Agency, Herbosa emphasized that if an individual is admitted due to not wearing a helmet, failing to use a seatbelt, or driving under the influence, they will be disqualified from the zero balance billing. Although there is no specific timeline for implementation, Herbosa mentioned that the department would soon communicate this policy change to all hospitals.
Herbosa clarified that while care will not be denied, violators will receive a bill upon discharge. He explained that if someone is found to be over the legal alcohol limit through blood tests or breath analysis after a crash, they will be excluded from the zero balance benefit. However, victims of road crashes who are not at fault will continue to be covered by the policy.
This policy change is part of the DOH's efforts to enhance road safety, as road accidents account for approximately 12,000 deaths and over 37,000 injuries annually in the country. Herbosa expressed hope that the initiative would encourage motorists to comply with traffic laws.
