Iloilo: Ilonggos are being encouraged to register with the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth). The expanded program provides access to essential and expanded primary care services, including medical consultations and health screenings, laboratory tests, essential drugs and medicines, and cancer screening.

According to Philippines News Agency, PhilHealth data showed that 557,028 individuals, or 26.19 percent of the population in Iloilo, have registered for the program, and 116,421 have had their first patient encounter. "We have just started; we want to register more. The main purpose of this program is preventive," PhilHealth acting Vice President for Western Visayas Larry Tabsing said in an interview at the sidelines of the Iloilo Provincial Health Summit.

Tabsing mentioned that they are asking local government units to help with the campaign because the program provides free consultation, diagnostics, and medicines. To date, PhilHealth has accredited 50 providers in Iloilo, with 40 being rural health centers. Tabsing also noted that of the 43 local government units in the province, three have not yet sought accreditation for their rural health centers. The construction of the Igbaras rural health center is ongoing, while the centers in Leon and San Miguel are yet to be improved.

"If they have no accredited health centers, they can come to the nearest providers, like in the hospitals," Tabsing added. Based on data, Passi City, Ajuy, Janiuay, Oton, and Tigbauan have the highest registered members, while Ajuy, Passi City, Lemery, Zarraga, and Maasin have the most first patient encounters.

PhilHealth has already disbursed some PHP68.9 million to providers, with Ajuy rural health unit, Zarraga Primary Care Facility, and Passi City Health Office getting the biggest share. To highlight the expanded benefits, there will be a 'Run and Ride for PhilHealth YAKAP' on Saturday at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol Grounds. The multi-sectoral event will also serve as the official launching of PhilHealth's flagship program, joined with a community fun and ride activity. It will also be highlighted by the conduct of the YAKAP service delivery caravan, including registration of members and their dependents with an accredited YAKAP Clinic, and the conduct of the first patient encounter.