MANILA, Philippines– The Department of Health (DOH) announced in Manila that it will expand its zero-balance billing program to include local government unit (LGU) hospitals nationwide, aiming to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses for patients.
Health Secretary [insert full name if available] said the DOH will coordinate with provincial, city, and municipal governments to ensure LGU-run hospitals participate in the program and that eligible patients do not pay fees beyond government-covered health financing.
The expansion will align with existing PhilHealth benefits and other government health financing mechanisms to implement zero-balance billing across local hospitals. The DOH plans to issue guidelines detailing patient eligibility, covered services, and billing procedures.
Officials noted consultations will take place with LGUs, hospital administrators, and stakeholders to identify resource needs and operational adjustments for implementing the program.
The DOH will also use hospital data to evaluate the program’s impact on patient financial protection and hospital operations. Inclusion of LGU hospitals will occur in phases, depending on readiness, availability of funds, and completion of administrative requirements.
