Politics · Philippines Bureau
Budget agency allocates P27.4B for health ministry's patient aid program
The Department of Budget and Management has released over P27 billion to support the Department of Health's medical assistance initiative for economically disadvantaged Filipinos. The funds will be distributed primarily through regional health offices across the country.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) announced the release of P27.41 billion in funding Friday to sustain the Department of Health's medical assistance program aimed at helping low-income patients access healthcare services.
According to the DBM, nearly 70 percent of the allocated funds will be channeled through regional health offices, enabling the program to reach beneficiaries in different parts of the country. The distribution structure is designed to streamline service delivery and ensure resources reach communities that need them most.
The medical assistance program provides financial support to indigent patients seeking treatment at Department of Health facilities nationwide. By routing substantial portions of the funding through regional offices, the program aims to strengthen local health systems' capacity to deliver aid directly to qualifying patients.
The continued allocation underscores the government's commitment to expanding healthcare access for vulnerable populations. The program has been instrumental in reducing out-of-pocket healthcare expenses for families with limited financial means, allowing them to pursue necessary medical treatment without catastrophic financial burden.