Access to affordable healthcare remains a challenge for many Filipinos, particularly when the cost of medical services and medications can make treatment difficult to afford. To help address this gap, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and Maxicare Group have formalized a partnership aimed at making healthcare services more accessible and coordinated for Filipinos.

The partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing at the Department of Finance Building in Manila. The agreement supports government efforts toward Universal Health Care by strengthening the complementation of benefits between PhilHealth and health maintenance organizations (HMOs).

“PhilHealth and the HMOs have served the same Filipinos in parallel for decades. Today we take another step towards the progressive implementation of Universal Health Care by improving the complementation of benefits of both payors,” said Christian Argos, Maxicare Group President and CEO.

Expanding Access Through Maxicare Clinics

Under the partnership, PhilHealth members may soon access PhilHealth-covered services at Maxicare Clinics nationwide. Once implemented, members will be able to visit participating Maxicare Clinics for services that may include consultations, animal bite treatment, maternal care, mental health services, and other covered healthcare needs.

Members of PhilHealth’s Yaman ng Kalusugan (YAKAP) Program will also be able to access services at Maxicare Clinics and its accredited clinics. The program promotes preventive care and proper health risk assessment and diagnosis.

For Dr. Beverly Lorraine Ho, PhilHealth President and CEO, the partnership represents a step toward a more coordinated and member-centered healthcare financing system. “The goal is a more seamless patient journey, with less duplication, fewer administrative barriers, and greater accountability amongst us payors and the providers,” she said.

Maxicare sees the collaboration as another way to help Filipinos prioritize their health without placing additional pressure on their household budgets. As PhilHealth expands its role in primary care, Argos said HMOs can use the opportunity to further enhance the benefits available to their members, ensuring that the value ultimately goes back to patients.

For more information, visit PhilHealth or explore Maxicare Clinics to find a clinic near you.