Baguio: The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) in the Cordillera region has initiated the accreditation of pharmacies to facilitate its "GAMOT" program, which stands for Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment. This development aims to enhance access to medications and health services for the region's residents.

According to Philippines News Agency, PhilHealth-Cordillera information officer Maggie Del Rosario conveyed in a text message that they are awaiting the list of medicines and pharmacies designated to dispense drugs, along with laboratory and cancer screening facilities. This step is crucial for implementing the GAMOT program effectively.

PhilHealth-Cordillera held an orientation session for pharmacies to evaluate which establishments will be accredited as GAMOT facilities. The program is designed to benefit active PhilHealth members registered under the "Konsulta" package, now rebranded as "Yakap." These members will be eligible for PHP20,000 worth of medicines, laboratory tests, and cancer screenings.

Del Rosario further clarified that this initiative is part of PhilHealth's strategy to offer free consultations and medicines, especially for maintenance purposes, and to ensure the early detection of diseases. She encouraged the public to register for the Yakap package to take advantage of its preventive healthcare benefits.