Mauie Flores

A couple of weeks ago, I wrote about my plans of changing my SSS status from employed to a non-employed spouse. I still haven't found time to visit the SSS office which is just nearby because I'm swamped with work. I'm planning to do this during my son's Christmas break.

To make the Christmas break more productive, I am also thinking of enrolling myself under the PhilHealth program. I have never been a member of this health program since we use my husband's PhilHealth coverage when one of us gets admitted in the hospital. I believe that I should also get one for myself. My sister-in-law, who is a food caterer, enrolled in one. I just need to register as an individual payer. I confirmed it after doing a little research.

Here are the steps on how to enroll under PhilHealth's Individually Paying Program: (Source: www.philhealth.gov.ph)

WHO CAN ENROLL:

1. Self-employed individuals;
2. Those who are separated from employment;
3. Employees of international organizations and foreign governments based in the Philippines without agreement with PhilHealth for the coverage of their Filipino employees in the program; and,
4. All other individuals not covered under the previous categories mentioned.

REGISTRATION PROCEDURES:

1. Fill out M1b Form (in duplicate copies)
2. Attach clear copy of supporting documents for qualified dependents to be declared
3. Registrant will be issued his/her PhilHealth Identification Number or PIN and the Member Data Record or MDR and shall be asked to pay the required premiums to the PhilHealth Cashier or at any of PhilHealth's accredited collecting banks.

PREMIUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Health insurance premium for Individually Paying Members is fixed at Php 100/month payable in quarterly, semi-annually or annually.
• Schedule of payment: Quarterly, Semi-Annual, and Annual.

One hundred pesos a month is just a small amount to pay for being under the program. At least, I can enjoy a discount for hospitalization bills. I am not planning of availing for a health insurance coverage anymore aside from what my husband's company is providing for us. I think having that, PhilHealth, and SSS is already okay.

Winnie Monsod, during one morning when I was able to watch Unang Hirit, said that PhilHealth is one of the few good things that we Filipinos can thank Mr. Macapagal-Arroyo for. I agree, PhilHealth is really a good and affordable program. I am not sure if it is at par with what other countries have to offer to their citizens but it's still better than none at all.

What do you think about PhilHealth and its programs? If you are living in the US, can you give me an idea on how your government's health insurance is like? Is it as good as bcbsnc's health coverage? Let me know what you think.