By: Valerie Ann Dismaya
With hospital bills on the rise across the country, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan has taken a step to ease the burden on its citizens by enforcing the No Balance Billing policy in public hospitals.
Governor Ramon V. Guico III has been spearheading efforts to modernize healthcare services in the province, ensuring that medical treatment remains accessible and free for the people of Pangasinan.
This comes as private hospitals nationwide report a 15% increase in fees.
According to Dr. Jose Rene De Grano, president of the Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines Inc., the spike is due to the rising costs of medical supplies and equipment.
As a response, Governor Guico introduced health-centered initiatives such as the Guiconsulta program.
Under this scheme, individuals enrolled in PhilHealth’s Konsulta program receive a 300 pesos cash incentive, helping cover transportation or food expenses during check-ups.
The provincial government funds this program to encourage more residents to seek medical consultations without worrying about out-of-pocket costs.
In addition, the modernization of public hospitals continues, with increased medical equipment and personnel to meet growing healthcare demands.
One of the key measures implemented is the No Balance Billing policy, specifically for indigent patients, PhilHealth-sponsored individuals, and members of vulnerable sectors.
This policy ensures that eligible patients will not be charged anything beyond what is covered by PhilHealth.
Through these initiatives, more Pangasinenses now enjoy broader access to quality healthcare, fulfilling Governor Guico’s commitment that no resident of the province should be left behind when it comes to health.
