Senate Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito, principal author of the Universal Healthcare (UHC) Law, said the measure is “already working” after learning that PhilHealth can now cover 100% of cataract surgeries when pre-approved.
Ejercito recently underwent a cataract removal procedure performed by Dr. Chris Ryan Cruz. The 25-minute operation on both eyes restored his 20/20 vision after lens replacement. During his hospital stay, nurses and resident doctors informed him that patients no longer need to shoulder out-of-pocket costs for cataract operations since PhilHealth now covers the full amount — including lenses, hospital fees, and professional services.
He explained that the pre-approval process helps ensure proper screening and prevents fraudulent cataract claims that were common in the past. Although Ejercito used his HMO card since his operation was scheduled on short notice, he emphasized that PhilHealth’s 100% coverage is intended to prioritize those in need.
“Great news indeed! I am able to see clearly now and also found out that indeed UHC is already working,” Ejercito said.
As the principal author of the Universal Healthcare Law, Ejercito highlighted that the measure provides automatic PhilHealth coverage for all Filipinos and improves healthcare delivery across the country. It also established the Health Technology Assessment Council (HTAC) to review medical procedures for inclusion in PhilHealth benefits and the Special Health Fund (SHF) to support local health facilities and programs.
Ejercito added that while challenges in implementation remain, the law’s impact is becoming more evident in hospitals nationwide.
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