The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) 5 (Bicol) officially launched its YAKAP (Yamang Kalusugan Para sa Pangkalahatang Kalusugan) Program in Albay on Friday, aiming to provide comprehensive healthcare to the local population.
PhilHealth-5 Vice President Alberto Manduriao said that, out of an estimated 1.44 million people in the province, 306,000 are registered for YAKAP, previously known as the Konsulta package.
There are 34 accredited health facilities ready to provide services under the program.
“Our ultimate goal is to ensure that every resident has early access to health services, allowing for the prevention or treatment of illnesses before they become severe. Through YAKAP, we are committing to a vision of a healthier and more inclusive community where no one is left behind,” Manduriao said.
The YAKAP program has expanded PhilHealth’s services, now including six cancer screening tests and Guaranteed Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT) coverage for 54 additional medicines, reflecting a 95 percent increase in benefit packages.
“Every member or dependent is entitled to an annual benefit limit of PHP20,000, which may be availed (of) at accredited GAMOT facilities. At present, the PhilHealth GAMOT is not yet accessible in Bicol as we are still in the process of accepting applications for accreditation,” he said.
Manduriao said they implemented several enhancements for benefit packages on top of the 95 percent increase covering nearly 9,000 cases.
“Enhancement includes lifting of the single period of confinement and the 45-day benefit rule, along with enhancements to our hemodialysis, severe dengue, cataract extraction, ischemic heart disease, and Zbenefit packages for kidney transplant and peritoneal dialysis,” he added.
YAKAP has been implemented in Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, and Masbate, with hopes of expanding to all provinces in the region.
“Together, we can make YAKAP a success by ensuring our communities are well-informed, engaged, and empowered to access the care they need. YAKAP is for everyone,” Manduriao added.
As of September, PhilHealth-5 has paid PHP5.9 billion for 454,000 claims. (PNA)