AS TEMPERATURES CONTINUE TO SOAR: PhilHealth assures coverage for heat-related illnesses

By Keren Anne Bernadas

As temperatures rise in the Bicol region, the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) has assured the public that benefit packages for heat-related illnesses and other summer medical conditions are available for members and beneficiaries.

According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), parts of the Bicol region have already recorded heat indices exceeding 40 degrees Celsius this month. This is classified under the “danger” to “extreme caution” levels, which may lead to heat-related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Rey Victor Mangampo, an information officer of the PhilHealth Regional Office, said during an episode of “Alagang PhilHealth” briefing that the health insurer has several benefit packages for heat-related and seasonal illnesses to support patients needing medical care during the summer season.

Coverage for heat exhaustion, collapse, and sunstroke is set at P12,675, while heat fatigue and other effects of heat and light are covered up to P18,135.

Moderate to severe dehydration has a package rate of P7,800.

PhilHealth also provides benefits for other common summer-related illnesses, including chickenpox without complications at P7,800, typhoid fever at P19,500, sore eyes or conjunctivitis at P16,575, and infectious diarrhea or acute gastroenteritis at P11,700.

Cases involving toxic contact with jellyfish, sea anemones, shellfish, and starfish are likewise covered up to P11,115.

Mangampo also highlighted PhilHealth’s outpatient emergency care benefit package, which provides emergency department services for patients requiring immediate medical attention without hospital admission.

Mangampo encouraged the public to stay protected from the heat by seeking shade or cooler areas, wearing light and comfortable clothing, drinking plenty of water, and immediately coordinating with hospital emergency units when symptoms of heat-related illnesses occur.

He also reminded the public to remain cautious while enjoying summer activities, particularly outings to beaches and other outdoor destinations, where prolonged exposure to the sun may increase the risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration.

PhilHealth encouraged members to regularly check accredited healthcare facilities and other services through the agency’s official website, www.philhealth.gov.ph. (PIA Bicol)