Ilocos norte: The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) in Ilocos Norte is reaching out to schools and villages, urging members to register under the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) to expand access to free outpatient consultations, laboratory tests, medicines, and preventive health services under the Universal Health Care program.
According to Philippines News Agency, Alvin Luciano Ubasa, public relations officer of PhilHealth Ilocos Norte, confirmed this development as they continue to reach more members and bring health services closer to communities. "As of April 30, 2026, we have enrolled a total of 41,576 beneficiaries under YAKAP," Ubasa stated, highlighting that the program aims to promote prevention and early detection of diseases, thereby helping to alleviate financial burdens for members.
Ubasa emphasized that once registered under the program, beneficiaries can access laboratory tests, medicines, and health and cancer screening services without needing hospital confinement. To register, members may sign up through the eGovPH app, the PhilHealth Member Portal, any PhilHealth office, or accredited YAKAP clinics.
He also noted that three government hospitals in Batac and Laoag cities, along with 15 rural health units and seven private clinics and hospitals in Ilocos Norte, are now YAKAP-ready. Enrolled members can visit these accredited health facilities for free consultation, initial care, and laboratory services.
Medicines prescribed by doctors are dispensed through the Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT) system. Beneficiaries present a prescription or QR code at accredited pharmacies to claim their medications.
The program encompasses a wide range of diagnostic and preventive laboratory services, including complete blood count (CBC) with platelet count; lipid profile tests (total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides); fasting blood sugar (FBS); oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT); glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c); creatinine testing for kidney function; chest X-ray; and electrocardiogram (ECG).
For disease screening, beneficiaries can also avail of services such as sputum microscopy, urinalysis, fecalysis, Pap smear, and fecal occult blood test.
Source: Philippine News Agency
