Frontline services to continue amid gov't energy conservation measures, says PhilHealth
By Jel Santos
Although the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has implemented adjusted work arrangements for its select personnel, the agency vowed that all frontline and hospital-based services will continue operating on a regular five-day schedule.
On March 9, the state health insurer said its administrative and back-office personnel have started a compressed onsite schedule from Monday to Thursday, with a 10-hour workday.
PhilHealth, on the other hand, said frontline offices and critical operational units will continue their regular Monday-to-Friday operations to ensure uninterrupted service to members.
The agency said the following services will still be fully operational throughout the five-day workweek:
1. PhilHealth CARES Nurses and P-Malasakit personnel in hospitals
2. Local Health Insurance Offices (LHIOs), PhilHealth Business Centers, Satellite Offices, and Hospital Desks
3. Claims Processing (Benefit Administration Section) and Information Technology (IT)
4. Legal and Field Operations
Per the state insurer, PhilHealth personnel will still be reachable and responsive on Fridays for urgent operational requirements and member concerns.
It noted that the adjusted work arrangement is part of the government’s nationwide energy conservation efforts in response to rising global oil prices and is in compliance with Malacañang Memorandum Circular No. 114, which directs government agencies to adopt flexible work arrangements to reduce fuel consumption and electricity use by 10 to 20 percent.
PhilHealth CEO and President, Dr. Edwin Mercado, underscored that the agency’s commitment to public service remains constant despite the adjustments.
"The efficiency offered by this arrangement must translate into better, more focused service delivery," he said.
“Our digital portals and frontline desks remain your reliable partners in health, every day of the business week."