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Navotas City – For 62-year-old Teresita Gabaleo, managing hypertension and diabetes comes with a hefty price tag. She spends over P5,000 every month just on essential medicines. This financial strain is a common plight for many senior citizens in the Philippines. But good news! The PhilHealth GAMOT program is here to provide much-needed relief.

What is PhilHealth GAMOT?

PhilHealth GAMOT (Gamutan ng Bayan) is a groundbreaking initiative by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) designed to make essential medicines more accessible and affordable for Filipinos, especially those with chronic illnesses. It's a key component of the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) program, aiming to ensure that everyone has access to quality healthcare services.

How Does it Work?

Under the PhilHealth GAMOT program, eligible members can receive up to P20,000 worth of medicines annually. This covers a wide range of essential medications for managing chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, asthma, and more. Here's a breakdown:

• Membership Requirement: You must be a PhilHealth member in good standing.
• Doctor's Prescription: You'll need a valid prescription from a licensed physician.
• Accredited Pharmacies: Medicines must be purchased from PhilHealth-accredited pharmacies. A list of accredited pharmacies can be found on the PhilHealth website or through their local offices.
• Claiming Process: The pharmacy will process the claim directly with PhilHealth. You only pay the difference, if any, between the PhilHealth benefit and the actual cost of the medicine.

Who is Eligible?

While the program is beneficial to all PhilHealth members, it particularly targets individuals with chronic illnesses who require regular medication. This includes senior citizens like Aling Teresita, who are often on a fixed income and face significant healthcare expenses.

The Impact on Senior Citizens

For Aling Teresita and countless others, PhilHealth GAMOT is a lifeline. It significantly reduces their out-of-pocket expenses for essential medicines, allowing them to allocate their limited resources to other necessities. This program not only improves their health outcomes but also eases their financial burdens.

How to Learn More and Register

To learn more about the PhilHealth GAMOT program, including eligibility requirements, a list of accredited pharmacies, and the claiming process, visit the PhilHealth website (www.philhealth.gov.ph) or contact your local PhilHealth office. You can also call their hotline at (02) 842-4777.

PhilHealth GAMOT is a testament to the government's commitment to providing accessible and affordable healthcare for all Filipinos. It’s a program that promises a healthier and more financially secure future for countless individuals across the nation.