Yakap ng Kalusugan: PhilHealth's Expanded Primary Care Benefits Now Available in Central Visayas!
Cebu City, Philippines – Filipinos in Central Visayas now have greater access to quality healthcare thanks to the official launch of the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (Yakap) by PhilHealth. The program, formally rolled out on August 11, 2025, at the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC) in Cebu City, signifies a significant enhancement to primary care benefits, aiming to strengthen healthcare access at the grassroots level.
What is Yakap ng Kalusugan?
Yakap ng Kalusugan, which translates to 'Embrace of Health,' is PhilHealth's comprehensive primary care benefit package. It moves beyond just episodic consultations and focuses on providing a continuous and integrated healthcare experience. This includes regular check-ups, health screenings, health education, and referrals to specialists when needed. The program is designed to promote preventive healthcare and early detection of diseases, ultimately reducing the need for more expensive and complex treatments later on.
Key Features of the Enhanced Program
- Expanded Scope: Yakap now covers a wider range of essential primary care services, including consultations with family medicine specialists, pediatricians, and internists.
- Wellness Programs: The program incorporates wellness programs focused on lifestyle modification, disease prevention, and health promotion.
- Integrated Services: Yakap promotes integration between primary care providers and other healthcare facilities, ensuring seamless patient care transitions.
- Focus on Prevention: Regular health screenings and preventive interventions are central to the program, aiming to catch potential health issues early.
Benefits for Patients
For Central Visayas residents, Yakap brings several key benefits:
- Increased Accessibility: More accessible and affordable primary care services, particularly in rural areas.
- Improved Health Outcomes: Early detection and prevention of diseases can lead to better health outcomes and a higher quality of life.
- Reduced Healthcare Costs: Preventive care can significantly reduce the need for costly hospitalizations and specialized treatments.
- Empowered Patients: Health education and engagement empower patients to take control of their health.
Impact on Healthcare Providers
The launch of Yakap also provides opportunities for healthcare providers in Central Visayas. It encourages them to adopt a more proactive and holistic approach to patient care. PhilHealth is providing training and support to ensure providers are equipped to deliver the enhanced primary care services effectively.
Looking Ahead
The official launch in Central Visayas marks a crucial step in PhilHealth's nationwide rollout of Yakap ng Kalusugan. The program is expected to significantly improve the health and well-being of Filipinos across the country by strengthening the foundation of our healthcare system – primary care. PhilHealth remains committed to expanding access to quality, affordable healthcare for all.
For more information about Yakap ng Kalusugan, visit the PhilHealth website or contact your local PhilHealth office.
