Manila: The Department of Health (DOH) is studying the possibility of expanding the zero balance billing coverage to semi-private rooms for barangay health workers (BHW). The plan, announced by Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa on Friday, is aligned with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr's directive to broaden the program's reach nationwide.

According to Philippines News Agency, the suggestion by the Secretary of Health aims to allow BHWs to be admitted in semi-private wards of any DOH hospital without having to pay for bills. The DOH highlighted this proposal in a statement on Saturday, emphasizing its potential impact on health workers.

Under the zero balance billing, patients in DOH hospitals no longer have to pay for medical services, medicines, and the professional fees of doctors. This initiative seeks to alleviate financial burdens on patients and ensure that medical care is accessible to all, particularly those serving in the healthcare sector as BHWs.

In September, the DOH reported a notable increase in daily average admissions in DOH hospitals. The numbers rose from 3,297 to 4,067 following the announcement of the zero balance billing policy, indicating its increasing utilization and potential need for further expansion.