Iloilo: The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is actively encouraging more members in Western Visayas to enroll in its Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama (Konsulta) package, highlighting the critical role of preventive healthcare. This initiative aims to enhance the overall health of the population by focusing on prevention and early intervention.

According to Philippines News Agency, Janimhe Jalbuna, head of PhilHealth's public affairs office, emphasized during a press conference on Friday that the Konsulta program is pivotal in maintaining health and averting potential health complications. Despite the importance of the program, as of the first quarter of 2025, only about 2.3 million people, or 28.57 percent of the estimated 8.2 million residents in the region, have registered. Alarmingly, only 168,468 individuals have completed their initial patient encounter, which is crucial for capturing vital health signs and enabling early intervention.

Jalbuna noted the challenge lies in increasing the number of members and dependents availing of the Konsulta services. The package offers 15 laboratory tests and a variety of essential medicines, aiming to provide comprehensive preventive care.

Junie Sabusap, the Field Operations Division chief, expressed hope that the program will improve the health-seeking behaviors of its members. To achieve this, PhilHealth is implementing initiatives such as the Konsulta caravan, targeted registration campaigns, and school-based programs.

Sabusap also stressed the importance of expanding the number of accredited facilities, which are currently only sufficient to serve 3.7 million members. As of March, there are 187 accredited providers, with the majority located in Iloilo and Negros Occidental.