Manila: The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) on Thursday called on Filipinos to take advantage of its benefit packages for common eye conditions. This is in line with the observance of the World Sight Day, ensuring its commitment to universal eye health under the Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines) campaign.

According to Philippines News Agency, to support Filipinos with vision problems, PhilHealth continues to provide financial coverage for major eye-related procedures and services. These include cataract surgery for children up to PHP187,100, cataract surgery for adults up to PHP80,900, glaucoma treatment up to PHP12,675 with a second case rate applicable, diabetic retinopathy up to PHP23,634, and an optometry package up to PHP2,500 per year for eye examinations and eyeglasses for children aged 0 to 15.

The state insurer underscored the importance of proper eye care through healthy habits such as eating nutritious food rich in vitamins A, C, and E-such as carrots, spinach, and citrus fruits. It also advised taking regular breaks to prevent eye strain by following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds; and wearing sunglasses to protect against harmful ultraviolet rays.

The public is reminded to visit an ophthalmologist or optometrist for regular check-ups.