The Department of Health (DOH) introduced the PhilHealth Mental Health Benefits Package during the launch of the 2024-2028 Philippine Council for Mental Health (PCMH) strategic framework on Thursday, Oct. 12.
The package includes a comprehensive range of mental health benefits for outpatient and community-based services, aimed at strengthening the Mental Health Act.
The expansion of the PhilHealth Mental Health Benefit Package was also announced, providing critical mental health support for outpatient services.
“The package was published today. Wait for two weeks for it to be implemented. Magkakaroon ng implementing rules and regulations. Saka hindi lahat, may mga different part muna (We anticipate a two-week waiting period for its full implementation as we work on the necessary implementing rules and regulations. Please note that not all aspects of the package will be immediately available),”
The package comprises a host of essential services, including 12 consultations, diagnostic follow-up, psychoeducation, and psychosocial support, all delivered by mental health outpatient facilities situated at medicine access sites.
This comprehensive mental health support for outpatients encompasses two main components: a general mental health service package valued at P9,000 per person per year and a specialty mental health service package valued at P16,000 per person per year, as outlined by the DOH.
Within the general mental health service package, individuals will gain access to screening, assessment, diagnostics, follow-up visits, psychoeducation, psychosocial support, and medications included in the DOH’s medicine access program dedicated to mental health.
In the case of the specialty mental health service package, services include assessment, specialist diagnostics, follow-up visits, access to relevant medications from the DOH’s medicine access program for mental health, and psychotherapy.
Eligibility criteria for these benefits stipulate, as per the DOH, that individuals must be 10 years old or older to receive assistance for psychiatric cases, with no age limit imposed on those seeking support for neurologic cases, as clarified by PhilHealth.
It said that PhilHealth is actively collaborating with the DOH to ensure the comprehensive implementation of these benefits and services.
The process involves the accreditation of primary care facilities, rural health units, barangay health stations, level two and level three hospitals, custodial care facilities, primary care physicians, and specialists to further expand the reach and accessibility of mental health care.
The announcement concluded with a call to action from PhilHealth: “Huwag ipagwalang bahala ang mental health, huwag mag-atubiling magpacheck up sa pinaka malapit na accredited facility (Do not neglect mental health; do not hesitate to seek a check-up at the nearest accredited facility).”
This initiative marks a significant step forward in the provision of mental health care in the Philippines, as it promises improved access and support for individuals seeking mental health services, the DOH said. (Zekinah Elize Espina)