ILOILO City – Emphasizing the need to embrace preventive health practices, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is pushing for a culture of proactive healthcare among Ilonggos through its enhanced Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama (KonSulTa) package.
This initiative, which gives importance to early illness detection and management, is seen to transform healthcare habits in the region.
PhilHealth Western Visayas’ public affairs head, Janimhe Jalbuna, underscored the program’s potential to reduce the prevalence of serious medical conditions, including hypertension, pneumonia, and chronic kidney disease.
“Preventive health services, such as consultations, diagnostic tests, and essential medicines, should become a regular part of our health routine. By doing so, we can prevent illnesses or manage them before they escalate,” said Jalbuna.
While over 2.2 million members and dependents nationwide have signed up for KonSulTa as of October 2024, the program’s actual utilization remains low, with only 280,433 having their initial patient encounters. This underutilization highlights the need for a stronger public push and greater awareness of the package’s benefits.
In 2025, PhilHealth is ramping up its efforts. The annual per-beneficiary allocation has been raised to P1,700, with an additional P1,000 dedicated to preventive oral care. The expanded package now includes 13 diagnostic services, such as breast mammograms and ultrasounds, alongside 21 essential medicines.
Moreover, starting Jan. 10, members can access emergency care services under a newly introduced benefit, ensuring financial coverage even in urgent medical situations.
Western Visayas currently has 180 accredited KonSulTa Package Providers (KPPs) offering these services. Jalbuna expressed hope that more Ilonggos would take advantage of the expanded benefits, particularly as PhilHealth continues to focus on making healthcare more accessible.
The program’s emphasis on prevention rather than cure represents a shift in how health systems address the growing burden of chronic diseases. This approach not only benefits individuals but also reduces the strain on healthcare resources in the long term. (With a report from the Philippine News Agency)/PN
