Bacolod: The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. in Western Visayas (PhilHealth-6) has disbursed over PHP1.97 billion for 257,084 dialysis claims in Western Visayas and Negros Occidental during the first six months of 2025.

According to Philippines News Agency, PhilHealth-6 public affairs unit head Janimhe Jalbuna revealed in an interview that the paid claims for this period have already surpassed the total amount paid in 2024, which was over PHP1.71 billion for 420,285 claims. In the latter half of 2023, the state health insurance paid at least PHP431.43 million for 137,604 claims.

Jalbuna noted that the increase in claims payment can be attributed to both the rising number of cases and the expanded hemodialysis package. The package increased from PHP2,600 per session in 2023 to PHP4,000 in mid-2024, and further to PHP6,350 by October 2024. She stated, "Partly, we assume, based on the data that we have, that there are additional patients for hemodialysis. But the big factor is the increase in the amount."

The expansion from 90 to 156 sessions annually has significantly aided patients, covering their needs if they undergo three sessions per week. Jalbuna added, "The increased package assured patients of almost zero payment." However, medical professionals can still levy a co-pay not exceeding PHP400 when necessary, although patients are typically covered under the no co-pay policy for mandatory services.

Under the expanded services, the total coverage for each patient availing of the 156 sessions amounts to PHP990,600. Despite the comprehensive package, Jalbuna emphasized the importance of prevention, stating, "Although this is one benefit package that no one wants to avail of. That is why our focus is really prevention."