Manila: Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa emphasized the continued importance of Malasakit Centers during a Senate hearing, despite the implementation of zero-balance billing in Department of Health (DOH) hospitals. The zero-balance billing covers basic ward accommodations, which account for about 90 percent of DOH hospital beds, leaving those in private accommodations to still seek financial assistance.
According to Philippines News Agency, Herbosa explained that patients occupying single or private rooms are not covered by the zero-balance policy, leading them to utilize Malasakit Centers for support. During the public hearing of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, chaired by Senator Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go, he reiterated the necessity of these centers in aiding patients who fall outside the zero-balance policy's coverage.
Senator Go, who is the author of the Malasakit Centers Act, urged the DOH to ensure the sustainability of the zero-balance policy, highlighting that Filipinos should be relieved of the burden of hospital bills in public facilities. He expressed his support for President Marcos's zero-balance billing policy, emphasizing that citizens should not have to queue at Malasakit Centers for financial aid when their expenses are already covered.
Herbosa noted that the DOH had initiated the zero-balance billing pilot in May, prior to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s formal directive, and confirmed its feasibility through feedback from hospital directors. He called on lawmakers to maintain funding for hospital operations to ensure the program's longevity.
The Malasakit Center program, established under Republic Act 11463 in 2018, serves as a one-stop shop for indigent patients seeking medical and financial assistance from various governmental bodies. Currently, over 160 centers operate nationwide, providing essential support to those in need.
