PhilHealth‘s SDG-related benefits program is a thoughtful effort tailored to address specific health challenges faced by Filipinos, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the United Nations. This program focuses on providing necessary treatments for conditions such as malaria, HIV-AIDS, tuberculosis, and offering support for family planning through voluntary surgical contraception methods. It also extends assistance for treatments necessitated by animal bites. Designed to cater to a wide range of health issues, these benefits underscore the agency’s commitment to enhancing the health and well-being of the Philippine population, ensuring that members have access to timely healthcare services when needed.
Targeting the entire Filipino populace, with particular attention to the most vulnerable sectors, the program seeks to ensure universal health coverage and equitable access to healthcare services. Backed by the Universal Health Care Act (RA11223), which mandates 100% coverage for all Filipinos, this program is a testament to the country’s dedication to achieving the SDGs, specifically those focused on good health, poverty reduction, and reduced inequalities. Members can expect comprehensive service coverage, including support for maternal health and protection against catastrophic health expenditures. Through a straightforward process involving active membership verification, consultation with accredited healthcare institutions, and submission of necessary documents, beneficiaries are poised to make the most of the benefits available to them, moving towards a healthier future for the Philippines.

What Are PhilHealth SDG-Related Benefits?
PhilHealth SDG-related benefits are specifically designed packages that target health issues directly impacting the Philippine populace. These include treatments for malaria, HIV-AIDS, tuberculosis, and support for family planning through voluntary surgical contraception. Additionally, it provides assistance for individuals requiring treatment due to animal bites.
What are SDGs?
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by the United Nations in 2015 as a universal call to action. These goals aim to address global challenges and create a better and more sustainable future for all. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development serves as a shared blueprint for peace, prosperity, and environmental preservation. At its core are 17 SDGs, which urgently call for action by all countries, both developed and developing. These goals recognize that ending poverty and other deprivations must go hand-in-hand with strategies to improve health, education, reduce inequality, spur economic growth, tackle climate change, and preserve our oceans and forests
Significance of the Program
PhilHealth significantly contributes to the advancement of the Philippine healthcare system in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for good health and well-being (SDG 3), poverty reduction (SDG 1), and reduced inequalities (SDG 10). The program aims for universal health coverage and equitable health service access for all Filipinos. With a coverage of 94.8 million beneficiaries as of mid-2021, and a mandate from the Universal Health Care Act (RA11223) for 100% coverage, the agency ensures that even the most vulnerable populations receive necessary health services. Its comprehensive service package, including significant support for maternal health through over 302,000 cesarean and 837,000 normal delivery claims, highlights its role in improving maternal and child health outcomes. Financially, PhilHealth protects families from the brink of poverty due to healthcare expenses, backed by legislation like PhilHealth Circular No. 2019-0010 which grants immediate eligibility to members for health services. This overarching support underscores the agency’s key position in promoting well-being and steering the Philippines towards achieving the SDGs.
Legal Basis
These benefits are grounded in the Philippines’ commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being at all ages. The legal framework for these benefits is established through various PhilHealth circulars and advisories that detail the coverage and guidelines for availing of these specific services.
Benefits
Each SDG-related benefit package comes with its own set of coverages, including but not limited to:
- Outpatient Malaria Package: Coverage up to P600, including diagnostic tests, medications, and consultations.
- Outpatient HIV-AIDS Package: Support for consultations, laboratory tests, and medications. (Consult PhilHealth for detailed coverage.)
- Voluntary Surgical Contraception Procedures: Financial assistance for procedures like tubal ligation and vasectomy.
- Animal Bite Treatment Package: Coverage for treatment, including rabies prophylaxis.
- Outpatient Anti-Tuberculosis Treatment through DOTS Package: Supports the DOTS program, covering medication adherence and monitoring.
Eligibility / Qualifications
To qualify for these benefits, individuals must be registered PhilHealth members or dependents, with premiums paid in accordance with PhilHealth’s requirements. It’s important to verify your eligibility status, especially for conditions requiring long-term care, such as HIV-AIDS or tuberculosis.
Requirements
The primary requirement is an active PhilHealth membership. Additionally, for specific treatments, you may need to present a medical certificate or diagnosis from a PhilHealth-accredited healthcare institution or provider.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Benefit from PhilHealth SDG Related Benefits
- Ensure Active Membership: Verify that your PhilHealth contributions are up to date.
- Consult an Accredited Healthcare Institution (HCI): Visit an HCI for diagnosis and to discuss your treatment plan. This is necessary because Philhealth announced that its enhanced benefits can only be availed in accredited health institutions. You can find the list of these institutions here.
- Submit Required Documents: Provide the necessary documentation, including your PhilHealth ID, to the HCI.
- Avail of the Benefits: The HCI will process your benefit claims with PhilHealth on your behalf.
- Follow-up: Keep in touch with both the HCI and PhilHealth for updates on your benefit claim and treatment progress.
Recent Updates
PhilHealth Region XII Collaborates with Governor Pacquiao for Health Care Provider Network Orientation and Site Sensitization
PhilHealth Region XII, led by OIC Head Dr. Alejandro Sarmiento, visited ALABEL, Sarangani Province on January 15, 2024, together with Governor Rogelio “Ruel” D. Pacquiao and other officials. During the visit, Governor Pacquiao was invited to attend the upcoming Orientation and Site Sensitization of Health Care Provider Network on January 23-24, 2024, at Greenleaf Hotel, General Santos City. The activity will cover various topics, including relevant policies, accreditation process, and guidelines for contracting health care provider networks.
Filipinos can now access permanent contraception procedures through the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation. PhilHealth’s acting president and CEO, Emmanuel Ledesma Jr., emphasized that these benefits are automatically provided and available at all PhilHealth-accredited healthcare facilities. The covered procedures include vasectomy for men and ligation or transection of fallopian tubes for women, with both the healthcare facility fee and physician fee components covered by PhilHealth.
In response to the increasing number of HIV cases in the country, PhilHealth has emphasized the importance of prevention and outpatient treatment. According to PhilHealth’s acting president, Emmanuel R. Ledesma, Jr., their Outpatient HIV/AIDS Package covers various medical expenses, including medication, laboratory tests, and professional fees. While the agency has paid over 15,000 claims for HIV treatment facilities, Ledesma highlights that prevention remains the best approach in combating the disease.
Discover the benefits of being a PhilHealth member and safeguard your savings from unexpected medical expenses. As a government agency, it provides financial assistance for hospitalization and other medical needs. From inpatient to outpatient services, PhilHealth is committed to supporting Filipinos in their healthcare journey.
PhilHealth offers an Animal Bite Treatment Package to financially assist those in need of rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) following an animal bite. For more information on its benefits, visit https://www.philhealth.gov.ph/benefits/. To find accredited providers, visit https://www.philhealth.gov.ph/news/2012/bite_treatment.html.
Video: PhilHealth Benefits Mo, Dapat Alam Mo! | Sustainable Development Goal-Related Benefits o SDG
Discover the extensive benefits of PhilHealth beyond hospital settings. From maternity care to outpatient treatments, PhilHealth ensures comprehensive coverage for all Filipinos, anytime and anywhere. #SagotKaNgPhilHealth: Your partner in healthcare.
Conclusion
PhilHealth’s SDG-related benefits represent a significant stride towards achieving universal health coverage and promoting well-being for all Filipinos. By understanding these benefits, eligibility criteria, and the process of availing them, you’re better equipped to utilize the healthcare support available to you and your loved ones. Remember, health is wealth, and this government agency is here to ensure that you have access to the care and treatment you need. Stay informed, stay healthy, and let’s work together towards a healthier Philippines.