Passi city: The integration of the flagship programs of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) and the Iloilo provincial government's 'Healthy Hearts' initiative will provide residents with a more responsive and patient-centered health system. This was assured by Iloilo Provincial Health Office-Health Services Division chief Dr. Rodney Labis during the joint launch of the Yaman at Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) and the Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT) of PhilHealth and the Healthy Hearts, held simultaneously with the general assembly of the Barangay Health Workers Association Inc., in Passi City on Friday.
According to Philippines News Agency, the joint launch carried the theme 'YAKAP at GAMOT: Proteksyon para sa Altapresyon at Kalusugan for Healthy Hearts of Ilonggos.' The Healthy Hearts Program seeks to improve cardiovascular health and reduce mortality caused by non-communicable diseases, such as heart diseases, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases, among others. It includes capacitating barangay health workers and educating the community to adopt healthier lifestyles.
During the launch, PhilHealth personnel were on hand to assist members in registering for YAKAP. The Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) conducted screenings and medical consultations under the Philippine Package for Essential NCDs (non-communicable diseases) Intervention. They also provided nutrition services and offered free X-ray screenings and free medicines.
Dr. Rodney Labis emphasized the significance of integrating the Healthy Hearts Program with the YAKAP and GAMOT program, highlighting the benefit of free access to medicines for participants. PhilHealth-Western Visayas Vice President Marjorie Cabrieto mentioned that those registered with YAKAP could avail of PHP20,000 worth of medicines under the GAMOT program. Additionally, the City Health Office of Passi has applied for accreditation to become a GAMOT provider, with plans to launch this service in two weeks.
