Throughout the years, discussions of mental health have boomed, allowing people to realize that mental health is as important as physical health. This gave way to services such as mental health hotlines and free check-ups to spark, making help accessible and inclusive to those experiencing these invisible pains.
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Despite the imperfections in the Philippines’ healthcare system, advancement has been made in making help accessible to Filipinos experiencing invisible pains as PhilHealth expands its coverage in financial assistance towards those living with mental illness.
Under the previous mental health coverage, a fixed rate of only ₱7,800 was applied for inpatient care. With the new expansion through PhilHealth Circular No. 2023-0018, general mental health services will now be covered up to ₱9,000, and specialized care will be covered up to ₱16,000 annually.
The coverage also expands its inclusivity, as hospital admission is no longer needed to receive the assistance. The Outpatient Benefit Package for Mental Health covers initial assessment, medical consultation, diagnostic tests, psychosocial support, professional interventions, and specialized care for conditions such as depression, psychosis, child and adolescent mental and behavioral disorders, dementia, and suicide risks. Members and dependents as young as 10 years old may receive necessary support.
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PhilHealth requires patients to be recorded in a Mental Health Registry. A Mental Health Passport that will serve as a treatment log and should be presented during follow-ups and referrals will be provided to those covered by the package.
Access to these services may be availed at any PhilHealth-accredited facility that provides general mental health services, like rural health units, city or municipal health offices, Level 1 and 2 hospitals, Department of Health Medicine Access Program mental health access sites, and stand-alone mental health clinics. As for specialized services, it can be accessed at accredited Level 2 and 3 hospitals with specialized staff, custodial care facilities, and DOH-identified national specialty centers.
The package also includes a referral system, allowing patients to transfer up to twice a year between DOH-accredited facilities through their referral system.
PhilHealth also offers support for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or mental health distress through 24/7 crisis hotlines, including the National Center for Mental Health hotline at 0917-899-8727 or 989-8727, for immediate counseling.
Members with inquiries may reach PhilHealth at (02) 866-225-88 or via mobile at 0998-857-2957, 0968-865-4670, 0917-127-5987, and 0917-110-9812.
For more stories on health, wellness, and support systems for Filipinos, explore the Good Balita section of GoodNewsPilipinas.com.
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