Davao city: The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) 11 (Davao Region) announced its partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-11) and Del Monte Fresh Produce Phils., Inc. for the initial implementation of the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) in the region.
According to Philippines News Agency, PhilHealth-11 emphasized its commitment to collaborating with partner agencies and promoting social health insurance programs, particularly the YAKAP program, which aims to improve access to primary care for Filipinos. On September 16, PhilHealth-11 signed a memorandum of agreement with DOLE-11 and Del Monte to enhance healthcare coverage for workers in the area.
PhilHealth-11 regional vice president Harvey Carcedo stated that the PhilHealth YAKAP is an expanded primary care program that builds on the benefits previously offered under the Konsulta package. Carcedo noted that it provides members with comprehensive health services, ranging from regular check-ups and laboratory tests to cancer screenings such as mammograms and colonoscopies. The program also includes access to 75 essential medicines and up to PHP20,000 worth of services aimed at reducing out-of-pocket healthcare expenses.
Under the memorandum of agreement, DOLE and PhilHealth committed to expanding outpatient healthcare access, raising awareness of the YAKAP program nationwide, and improving understanding of workers' health benefits. DOLE-11 regional director Randolf Pensoy welcomed the initiative, highlighting the importance of making healthcare more accessible to workers and their families. Pensoy remarked that the launch serves as a reminder of the significance of health and well-being at the core of every company and workplace.
To access the benefits, members must register at an accredited YAKAP clinic and obtain a prescription from an authorized physician. Each prescription includes a unique security code that enables patients to claim medicines from designated facilities. Del Monte Fresh Produce Phils., Inc. senior manager Rosame Rentuma emphasized the role of health programs in promoting worker productivity and well-being. Rentuma expressed that through YAKAP, communities will have improved access to primary care, essential medicines, diagnostic services, and cancer screenings, aligning with the goal of 'Kalusugan ng Bawat Pilipino.'
Following its launch in the region, an initial group of 256 Del Monte workers enrolled in the YAKAP program.
