In an interview, Senator Risa Hontiveros said that two health-related bills are already ready for approval on third and final reading as she outlined the measures she plans to pursue once the Senate resumes session.
Hontiveros said one of the bills she wants to advance is the Health Outreach for Seniors and Indigent Patients Bill, which seeks to extend basic health services beyond hospitals and health centers. The proposed measure aims to deliver assistive devices and essential medical care directly to senior citizens and indigent patients in their homes or barangays, particularly those who face mobility limitations or difficulty accessing regular health facilities.
She also identified the Lupus Prevention and Treatment Bill as a priority measure nearing passage. The bill proposes the establishment of a Department of Health–led program for the early detection and treatment of lupus and other autoimmune diseases. It also seeks Philippine Health coverage for testing and early detection to help address financial barriers that often delay diagnosis and access to care.
Hontiveros said the measures reflect her focus on prevention, early intervention, and community-based health services as the Senate prepares to return to regular session. She added that several other health-related bills under her committee are still in the earlier stages of the legislative process and are expected to undergo further deliberations when sessions resume.
