As a parent under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), you know that this program is here to support your family.
One of its main objectives is to help you make sure your children grow up healthy and strong.
When you have a child, especially one under 5 years old, it’s important to get them regular check-ups to catch any health issues early.
The good news?
If you’re part of 4Ps, you’re eligible for preventive health check-ups through government services like PhilHealth.
This means you don’t need to worry about high costs, as most services are either free or covered by your benefits.
Who is Eligible?
If your family is enrolled in 4Ps, you are already qualified to receive health services, including preventive check-ups for your children.
The program targets low-income families with children aged 0-18 years old or with a pregnant woman in the household.
As long as you’re a beneficiary, your family is covered under PhilHealth, which gives you access to healthcare services at little to no cost.
Why Preventive Health Check-ups Matter
As a parent, you may often feel overwhelmed balancing everything—work, taking care of your family, and worrying about your child’s health.
That’s where preventive check-ups come in handy.
These regular visits help you stay on top of your child’s health, catching potential issues early before they become bigger problems.
They help:
- Track your child’s growth and development.
- Catch illnesses or conditions early.
- Keep your child’s immunizations up to date.
- Offer professional advice on raising a healthy child.
How to Access Preventive Health Check-ups Through 4Ps
1. PhilHealth Coverage
If you’re a 4Ps beneficiary, you automatically receive coverage through PhilHealth.
This means you can bring your child to any accredited healthcare provider for preventive check-ups without worrying about paying out of pocket.
PhilHealth covers services such as:
- Well-baby visits
- Vaccinations
- Growth and development screenings
- Health education for parents
To use your PhilHealth benefits, simply visit any PhilHealth-accredited healthcare provider or government hospital.
Remember to bring your PhilHealth ID or your 4Ps beneficiary card to show proof of your coverage.
2. Local Health Centers
Local health centers are one of the easiest ways for 4Ps families to get preventive healthcare.
These centers offer various services, including:
- Vaccinations
- Monitoring growth and development
- Nutritional counseling
- Health education
Most of these services are free for 4Ps families or available at a very low cost.
Just head to your nearest health center and let them know you’re a 4Ps beneficiary.
Health centers are usually located within your barangay, so you won’t have to travel far.
3. Barangay Health Stations
For families living in rural or hard-to-reach areas, Barangay Health Stations are available.
These community-focused health facilities offer basic services like preventive check-ups and vaccinations.
They’re easy to access, making them an ideal option for families who live far from larger health centers or hospitals.
Like local health centers, most services at Barangay Health Stations are free or require only a minimal fee for 4Ps families.
4. Health and Nutrition Sessions Under 4Ps
Another benefit of being part of the 4Ps program is the regular health and nutrition sessions you are required to attend.
These sessions are designed to teach you about maintaining your child’s health and the importance of preventive care.
During these meetings, you’ll also get helpful tips on accessing government health services and have the chance to ask questions directly to healthcare professionals.
Important Preventive Health Services for Children
1. Immunizations
Keeping your child’s immunizations up to date is one of the best ways to protect them from serious diseases like measles, mumps, and polio.
As a 4Ps beneficiary, your child can receive these immunizations for free at your local health center or barangay health station.
Make sure to keep a record of your child’s vaccinations and bring it with you during check-ups.
2. Well-Child Visits
Well-child visits are routine check-ups where healthcare providers monitor your child’s growth, weight, and overall health.
These visits give you a chance to address any concerns about your child’s health and receive professional advice on nutrition, physical activity, and other healthy habits.
3. Developmental Screenings
Developmental screenings help spot any delays in your child’s physical, social, or mental growth.
Early detection can make a huge difference, as healthcare providers can refer your child to specialists for proper treatment or support if needed.
4. Oral Health
It’s easy to forget about oral health, but it’s just as important as other areas of your child’s health.
Under PhilHealth, basic dental services are covered, so make sure to schedule regular dental visits for your child at a government health facility to keep their teeth healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much will it cost to get preventive health check-ups for my child under 4Ps?
Most preventive services for children are FREE or covered by PhilHealth for 4Ps beneficiaries.
You won’t need to worry about paying large sums for essential services like immunizations or growth monitoring.
- What should I bring when I go for a check-up?
Be sure to bring your PhilHealth ID or 4Ps beneficiary card.
It’s also helpful to bring your child’s health records, including their vaccination card, to keep everything updated.
- What if I live far from a health center or hospital?
If you live in a rural area, visit your nearest barangay health station.
They offer the same preventive services as health centers and can refer you to larger facilities if your child needs more specialized care.
Conclusion
As a 4Ps beneficiary, you have access to a wide range of services to keep your child healthy and thriving.
By using PhilHealth benefits, local health centers, and barangay health stations, you can make sure your child gets the preventive care they need to grow strong and healthy.
Regular check-ups, vaccinations, and developmental screenings help set your child on the right path from the start.
Don’t wait until there’s a problem—take advantage of the healthcare services available to you and schedule a check-up today.
Your child’s health is a priority, and the 4Ps program is here to support you every step of the way.