PH Celebrates National Health Insurance Month

February is National Health Insurance (NHI) Month in the Philippines, as declared by Presidential Proclamation No. 1400 in 2007. The NHI program is a form of social health insurance (SHI) that pools the health risks of individuals and is funded by contributions from individuals, households, enterprises, and the government. The principle of social solidarity, as exemplified by the Bayanihan spirit, underlies the program, where risks are shared among different income, age, health, and geographic groups.

The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is responsible for implementing the National Health Insurance Program, as stated in Republic Act 7875. The theme for this year’s observance of PhilHealth’s 28th anniversary on February 14 is “Expanded and New Benefits for the Filipino People.” The aim of the celebration is to raise public awareness of social health insurance and encourage partners to fulfill their roles in the success of the NHI program. During the pandemic, PhilHealth paid out 307.70 billion for over 33.93 million claims filed by members and their dependents.

PhilHealth is also leading various low-key but impactful activities, such as a press conference to announce new benefits and a symposium to showcase its achievements and raise awareness of NHI Month. The state insurer invites government agencies, media, and the public to support the celebration’s goal of providing all Filipinos with equitable access to affordable and acceptable healthcare services without causing economic hardship.