There are two groups of contributors in PhilHealth which are the Contributory (premium contributions from payroll) and the Non-contributory (fully subsidized premium from tax collections like Senior Citizens, indigents) that has equal benefits.

The Act also apply No Balance Billing (NBB) for Non-contributory group in ward admissions in public hospitals and Fixed Co-payment for contributory members in private room accommodation.

Philippine Health Insurance Corporation was renamed into Philippine Health Security Corporation to let Filipino understand the new role of PhilHealth as purchaser of health services. It will cover consultation fees, medical tests, and diagnostic services.

The Law requires almost P257 Billion on its first year but given only P215 Billion to be proposed in 2019 national budget. The additional source of funds for PhilHealth would be:

• Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (Charity Fund)
• Gaming Corporation (Members Contributions)
• Department of Health (National Budget)
• Government Subsidies
• Sin Tax Collection

Meanwhile, all government scholar graduates in health-related courses should serve public hospital in at least 3 years to avoid shortage in medical staffs.

There had been 4 House Bills that were filed in Congress?

• 1st: Hon. Winston “Winnie” Castelo (H.B. No. 159)
• 2nd:Hon. Herminio Harry L. Roque (H.B. No. 225)
• 3rd: Hon. Vilma Santos-Recto (H.B. No. 1825)
• 4th: Hon. Ron P. Salo (H.B. No. 5120)

All filed was consolidate by Hon. Angelina “Helen” D.L. Tan, as H.B. No.5560 at the Congress Committee on Health Chairperson and was set for a second reading on Congress.

The Counterpart Bill, Senate Bill 1458 was filed by Senator JV Ejercito and identified as priority bill that was turned into a law.

The Law signed aside from UHC Act are Social Security Act, Philippine Sports Training Center Act, Central Bank Act and approving two legislative district in Southern Leyte.

At last, health care will be given equally to all Filipino citizens. What can you say about it? We'll be glad to hear your opinions.

Sources: cnnphilippines, https://www.doh.gov.ph , cebudailynews.inq.net