PhilHealth Maternity Benefits serve as a protective shield for pregnant women in the Philippines, offering a financial cushion for prenatal, delivery, and postnatal care. This directly responds to the country’s maternal health challenges, providing essential services that range from antenatal atteto essential postpartum checkups. The packages include the Maternity Care Package and the Newborn Care Package, which are designed to ensure both mother and child have access to the necessary healthcare services during the delicate stages of pregnancy and after childbirth.
Targeting primarily women from the C-3 and D socioeconomic segments, PhilHealth’s program stands as a testament to the government’s dedication to improving maternal health outcomes. By making these services available to every eligible Filipino woman, the program aligns with the Universal Health Care Act, underscoring the commitment to accessible and affordable healthcare. Expectant mothers can anticipate comprehensive care that not only reduces the risk of complications but also eases the financial impact of bringing new life into the world.
What are PhilHealth Maternity Benefits?
PhilHealth Maternity Benefits offer financial assistance to pregnant women for prenatal, delivery, and postnatal care. Aimed at reducing the financial burden of childbirth, these benefits cover various healthcare needs throughout the pregnancy journey. The benefits include the Maternity Care Package (MCP) and the Newborn Care Package, ensuring both mother and child receive the necessary healthcare services during this period.
Significance of the Program
PhilHealth Maternity Benefits are essential for improving the health of mothers in the Philippines. Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority shows over five maternal deaths per day in 2020, highlighting the need for proper pregnancy care. To address this, PhilHealth offers Maternity Care Packages (MCP) covering essential services from antenatal care to post-partum checkups, with rates ranging from P6,500 to P8,000. This financial assistance, mandated by Republic Act 7875, empowers expecting mothers, especially those belonging to socioeconomic segments C-3 and D, to access quality healthcare and reduces the risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
Legal Basis
PhilHealth’s mandate to provide these benefits is rooted in the Universal Health Care Act, ensuring all Filipinos, including pregnant women, have access to comprehensive health care services. This commitment underscores the government’s dedication to maternal and child health, emphasizing the importance of accessible and affordable healthcare services for all.
Benefits
PhilHealth offers two main packages under its maternity benefits:
Maternity Care Package (MCP)
- Normal Spontaneous Delivery (NSD) Package: Provides ₱5,000 for hospital care and ₱6,500 for accredited birthing homes or maternity clinics.
- ₱1,500 for prenatal care
- Facility fee (including professional fees) ranges from ₱5,000 to ₱6,500, with no balance billing for all.
- Cesarean Package: The benefit amount is calculated based on the total bill, with specific computations done by PhilHealth.
Newborn Care Package
- Valued at ₱1,750, covering prenatal, delivery, and postnatal care services, including:
- Newborn screening and hearing tests
- Essential Intrapartum and Newborn Care (EINC) protocol
- Vaccinations (BCG and Hepatitis B)
- Professional fees, with no balance billing.
Eligibility / Qualifications
For the Maternity Care Package, members must:
- Be at least 19 years old.
- Not have a history of three or more abortions/miscarriages.
- Not have certain medical conditions affecting reproductive health.
For the Newborn Care Package, all qualified newborns of members are eligible, with no birth limit imposed.
Requirements
The essential documents for availing of these benefits include:
- PhilHealth Claim Forms 1, 2, and 3.
- Updated Member Data Record (MDR).
- Proof of eligibility (e.g., sponsored ID, proof of premium payments).
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Benefit from PhilHealth Maternity Benefits
- Ensure Eligibility: Verify your eligibility based on the criteria provided by PhilHealth, including updated contributions and the number of deliveries.
- Prepare the Necessary Documents: Gather all required documents, including PhilHealth Member Registration Form (PMRF) and your Member Data Record (MDR).
- Know the Maternity Benefits Package: Familiarize yourself with the specifics of the Maternity Care Package and the Newborn Care Package.
- File Your Claim: Coordinate with relevant authorities or social welfare offices for certificate validation and further assistance in the claim process.
Recent Updates
Expanded PhilHealth Benefits for Every Filipino Member
Discover the extended PhilHealth benefits for pregnancy and newborn care, ensuring the well-being of both mother and baby. Stay informed about your entitlements to provide the best care for mommy and baby!
PhilHealth provides a range of benefits for mothers and newborns, ensuring that essential medical needs are covered. These benefits include financial support for various childbirth procedures and comprehensive newborn screening tests to safeguard the baby’s health. With the No Balance Billing Policy, direct contributors can enjoy childbirth and newborn care services at public healthcare facilities without additional out-of-pocket expenses.
Mam Mailen L. Sequito from Los Baños, Laguna, experienced the financial relief of PhilHealth’s zero-balance policy firsthand. With her newborn Baby Mark Bryan, she received free hospital care and newborn screening services at Dr. Jose Rizal Memorial Provincial Hospital, all covered by PhilHealth. She extends her gratitude for the support that covered all expenses for her and her child’s medical needs.
Video: PHILHEATH, may exclusive benefit para sa mga kababaihan
PhilHealth’s Maternity Care Package (MCP) is a helpful benefit for Filipino women, offering financial security and access to quality prenatal and postpartum care, especially for those facing economic hardship. This not only reduces the Philippines’ high maternal death rate but also promotes healthcare equality and allows families to focus on their expecting mothers’ well-being.
Conclusion
PhilHealth’s Maternity Benefits play a significant role in alleviating the financial burden of pregnancy on Filipino families. By offering comprehensive coverage for prenatal, delivery, and postnatal care, these benefits ensure that expectant mothers and their newborns receive the care they need during this time. To make the most of these benefits, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria, prepare the necessary documents, and follow the claim process diligently. Remember, while PhilHealth provides substantial support, it’s also wise to prepare financially for any additional expenses that may arise during the pregnancy journey.