State-owned Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) will begin covering the cost of prescription eyeglasses, crutches, walkers, and wheelchairs for all its members starting January 2025, according to Rep. Erwin Tulfo of the ACT-CIS party-list.
“The PhilHealth management has agreed to shoulder these costs starting next year. Seniors and persons with disabilities often struggle with mobility, which is why Speaker Martin Romualdez requested this assistance,” Tulfo said.
He emphasized the high demand for wheelchairs among senior citizens and PWDs but noted the inclusion of other essential items like eyeglasses, crutches, and walkers.
“This will ease the burden on our indigent communities,” Tulfo added.
PhilHealth President Manny Ledesma requested until January 2025 to implement the program nationwide, allowing time to develop the necessary mechanics.
He confirmed that work is underway to establish how members can access the program and determine which optical centers and pharmacies will distribute the equipment.
Photo Courtesy : PhilStar Global
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