Department of Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa on Tuesday, Oct. 24 addressed concerns that the process of carrying out the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act may add yet another layer of "red tape."
"When we look at it that way, it's red tape, but to me, I think it's good governance because if you're going to give money to the local government to be used for health,” he explained in PTV Bagong Pilipinas live televised press briefing.
“In the past, for instance, if a mayor had a maternity clinic, the reimbursement for its services went directly to the mayor. Now we channel the resources into special health funds. This allows for more efficient allocation based on local health system needs and also opens avenues for coordination with the private sector, which can also receive these funds,” he added.
Herbosa said some provinces have already established bank accounts for the special health funds, although funds have yet to be deposited.
Implementing this system requires multiple adjustments, including changes to the financing system, as it involves channeling funds for direct reimbursements to healthcare providers and the salaries of additional medical staff, he added.
"'Yun pa ang isang pag-uusapan (That is another matter to be discussed), the national government as a council can provide good governance and transparency," Herbosa said.
Moreover, the DOH chief underscored that the UHC initiative is nationwide, promising improved accessibility for the people and this would negate the need to approach congressmen or senators for individual health assistance.
"The UHC Act aims to strengthen our primary healthcare," Herbosa explained, noting that the local government code had previously weakened this aspect.
With the integration underway, the DOH aims to fortify primary care services, aligning with the overarching goal of the UHC Act, he said. (Zekinah Elize Espina)