Manila: The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) has signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) to enhance systems, deter fraudulent claims, and ensure benefits reach every Filipino.
According to Philippines News Agency, PhilHealth President and CEO Edwin Mercado stated that the agreement for the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) co-location and the introduction of the PhilHealth Check Utility (PCU) are pivotal in the full realization of universal healthcare. This initiative aims to ensure accurate identification and the proper distribution of benefits to all Filipinos.
Mercado emphasized that under the Universal Healthcare Act, every Filipino is automatically eligible for PhilHealth coverage, regardless of their employment status or sector affiliation. He noted the importance of strengthening systems to guarantee that benefits are delivered to the rightful recipients, acknowledging potential operational challenges but underscoring the necessity of these enhancements.
In support of these efforts, the PhilHealth Check Utility is being launched to bolster the integrity of membership data. By integrating PhilSys data, the PCU will facilitate real-time identity verification, perform biometric checks, and maintain accurate records. This integration will help prevent duplications, enhance safeguards, and protect the health fund, ensuring benefits are distributed appropriately.
PSA National Statistician and Civil Registrar General Claire Dennis Mapa highlighted the significance of this initiative in advancing digital governance and service delivery. Mapa acknowledged the progress of the national ID system, reporting significant registration and authentication transaction figures, which underpin the reliability and scale of the country's identity infrastructure.
The PCU's integration of PhilHealth services with the national ID system will streamline access to benefits and reduce duplication through real-time identity verification. As part of the partnership, co-location sites will be established nationwide, allowing Filipinos to access health insurance and national ID services at a single transaction point. This effort aligns with the government's goal of improving efficiency and accessibility in its services.
The co-location initiative will be rolled out across PhilHealth's 18 regional offices and 120 local health insurance offices nationwide.
