Manila: The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is providing financial support of up to PHP135,000 for premature babies born between 24 weeks and less than 32 weeks of gestational age under its Z Benefits package.
According to Philippines News Agency, PhilHealth’s advisory, which coincides with the global observance of World Prematurity Day, highlights the Z Benefit as a means to assist parents in managing the high medical costs associated with the care of extremely premature or small newborns. This package is available through PhilHealth-contracted health facilities and includes essential services needed during the infant’s critical early weeks.
Additionally, for newborns delivered between 32 and less than 37 weeks of gestation, PhilHealth offers benefits ranging from PHP24,000 to PHP71,000, depending on the baby’s condition and treatment needs. The agency also detailed assistance for expectant mothers at risk of preterm delivery, offering support from PHP600 to PHP4,000 to help prevent complications such as preterm labor, vaginal bleeding, PPROM, preeclampsia, and eclampsia. This benefit includes coordinated referral and transfer to higher-level health facilities when necessary.
PhilHealth further noted that premature infants born with congenital anomalies, such as congenital heart disease or cleft lip/palate, may also qualify for additional support. The organization emphasized that prematurity remains a leading cause of death worldwide, highlighting the importance of timely medical care and financial protection for affected families.
