The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), in collaboration with PhilHealth, has developed a significant aid program titled MEDplus to offer supplemental medical assistance to the heroes of modern Filipino society – our Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). MEDplus stands as a safety blanket, specifically catering to the healthcare needs of OFWs who encounter serious health challenges while abroad or within the Philippines. The program provides a monetary buffer that matches PhilHealth‘s case rate benefits, ensuring that expenses linked to dreaded diseases do not become a crippling financial burden to OFWs and their families.
Also Read: Medical Assistance Programs | Health Aid in the Philippines
Targeted beneficiaries of the MEDplus program are active members of both OWWA and PhilHealth—a testament to the government’s foresight in intertwining these memberships to weave a more robust protective gear for OFWs. Applicants can expect to navigate through an established system designed to expedite the provision of up to Php 50,000.00 in financial aid that corresponds with the pre-determined case rates of PhilHealth. As the program continues to unfold, OFWs are encouraged to remain informed about their eligibility, the streamlined application process, and the crucial documentation required to access this indispensable support when adversity strikes.
Overview
In the life of an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW), challenges are plenty, and among the most daunting is dealing with health issues away from home.
Recognizing this, OWWA introduced the Supplemental Medical Assistance for OFWs, commonly known as MEDplus. This program acts as a ray of hope, providing financial assistance to individuals facing medical challenges.
What is MEDplus?
MEDplus is a program designed to provide supplemental medical relief to active OWWA and PhilHealth member OFWs who suffer from dreaded diseases and have been hospitalized, whether at their job sites abroad or in the Philippines.
It offers financial assistance to help cover hospital and medical bills, serving as a complement to the benefits provided by PhilHealth under its case rate system. The assistance provided can reach up to Fifty Thousand Pesos (Php 50,000.00) per member, offering significant relief during challenging times.
Significance of the Program
The importance of this initiative cannot be overstated. For OFWs who dedicate their lives to supporting their families back home, falling ill can be a significant burden, both emotionally and financially.
MEDplus not only alleviates the financial strain associated with medical treatments but also provides OFWs with peace of mind, knowing that they have a safety net to fall back on in times of need.
This program underscores the commitment of the Philippine government to safeguard the welfare of its overseas workers, acknowledging their valuable contribution to the economy and society.
Legal Basis
The establishment of the program is grounded in the Philippine government’s recognition of the vital role that OFWs play in national development. It is part of a suite of services and programs aimed at ensuring the welfare and well-being of Filipino workers abroad.
The legal framework supporting the program reinforces the government’s commitment to upholding the rights and welfare of OFWs, ensuring they have access to necessary support services, including healthcare assistance.
Benefits
The primary benefit of the program is the financial assistance it offers to cover hospital and medical expenses. This benefit is equivalent to the PhilHealth benefits under its case rate system, with a maximum amount of Php 50,000.00 per member. This assistance is crucial for OFWs facing dreaded diseases, helping them manage the financial burden of medical treatment.
What is the case rate system?
Under the case rate payment system, a fixed amount of benefits is paid for hospitalization for every treated medical or surgical case. This new scheme is implemented in all PhilHealth accredited hospitals, regardless of whether they are public or private. (source)
Eligibility / Qualifications
To qualify, applicants must be active members of both OWWA and PhilHealth.
- This dual membership ensures that OFWs have access to comprehensive healthcare benefits, with MEDplus serving as a supplemental support to cover additional expenses not fully addressed by PhilHealth.
Requirements
- OFW Membership Record (MR)
Where to Secure: Obtain your OFW Membership Record directly from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration’s Regional Welfare Office (OWWA RWO). This record proves your active membership, which is essential for eligibility.
- MEDplus Application Form
Where to Secure: This form can also be obtained from the OWWA RWO. It’s the official application form for the program, which you’ll need to fill out accurately and completely.
- One (1) Copy of Passport Size Picture
- Valid Passport
- Valid Identification (I.D) Card
- Member Data Record from PhilHealth
Where to Secure: This can be obtained from PhilHealth. It’s a document that proves your active membership and eligibility for health insurance benefits, which the program supplements.
- Medical Certificate
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for MEDplus Program
Applying for MEDplus involves a series of steps designed to ensure that the assistance reaches those who need it most. Here’s a simplified guide:
- Verify Eligibility: Ensure that you are an active member of both OWWA and PhilHealth.
- Gather Documentation: Compile all necessary documents, including proof of OWWA and PhilHealth membership, medical records, and hospital bills.
- Submit Application: Visit the nearest OWWA office or their official website to submit your application and all required documents.
- Review Process: OWWA will review your application to ensure it meets all criteria and requirements.
- Approval and Disbursement: Once approved, the financial assistance will be disbursed to help cover your expenses.
Success Stories / Recent Updates
OWWA XI Provides PhP26,000.000 Financial Assistance to OFW Mary Pinky C. Tapang under MEDPlus Program
OWWA XI recently disbursed PhP26,000.000 in financial assistance to OFW Mary Pinky C. Tapang on September 07, 2023, at the RWO XI office. This assistance is part of the MEDPlus program, which aims to provide supplemental medical relief to active OWWA and PhilHealth member-OFWs who are hospitalized due to dreaded diseases. The financial aid is equivalent to the PhilHealth benefits under its case rate system, with a maximum limit of PhP50,000.00.
The Office of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) XI has granted financial assistance to overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) who have availed of the Supplemental Medical Assistance for OFWs program. MedPLUS aims to provide additional financial support to active OWWA and PhilHealth member-OFWs who are hospitalized due to serious illnesses, whether in their job sites or in the Philippines. The assistance is equivalent to the PhilHealth benefits under its case rate system, with a maximum amount of PhP 50,000.00.
The MedPlus program provides supplemental medical assistance to active OWWA and PhilHealth members who are OFWs and have been hospitalized or experienced a serious illness either in their place of work or while in the Philippines. To avail of this benefit, the following requirements must be submitted: OFW Membership Form, MedPlus Application Form, one (1) copy of a passport-sized photo, valid passport, valid ID, Member Data Record from PhilHealth, Medical Certificate, and if the OFW’s family is claiming the assistance, additional documents such as a notarized Special Power of Attorney or death certificate of the deceased OFW and marriage or birth certificate issued by the Philippine Statistic Authority (PSA) for the claimant.
Video: PHP 50,000 SUPPLEMENTAL MEDICAL ASSISTANCE NG OWWA PARA SA OFW
Discover the OWWA MEDplus program, a supplemental medical assistance provided by OWWA that offers up to Php 50,000.00 worth of cash aid. In this video, learn about the benefits, qualifications, requirements, and application process for OWWA MEDplus Benefits. Join us as we discuss all these important details and more.
Conclusion
The MEDplus program is a testament to the Philippine government’s commitment to the welfare of its overseas workers. By providing financial assistance for medical emergencies, this ensures that OFWs have the support they need during some of their most challenging times. The journey of an OFW is fraught with challenges, but with programs like this, there’s a reassuring safety net that underscores the value and importance of every Filipino working abroad.