PhilHealth urged to cover leptospirosis treatment for disaster victims

MANILA – Deputy Majority Leader and ACT-CIS Party-list Representative Erwin Tulfo on Tuesday called on the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to step up and cover the costs of medical treatment for leptospirosis and tetanus in the light of natural disasters and other challenges frequently occurring in the nation.

Under House Resolution No. 1811 he and four colleagues filed on Monday, PhilHealth is being required to ensure that victims of natural calamities do not face additional hardships in accessing treatment for these serious diseases by covering the medical expenses.

“The intervention is crucial as it provides to those who are already burdened by the trauma and loss caused by the disaster,” Tulfo said in his privilege speech.

He said the challenge of accessing and affording necessary medical treatment can become overwhelming for many victims after the disasters.

“As a result, there is an urgent need to address this gap in our disaster response strategy,” he said.

Tulfo’s co-authors include fellow ACT-CIS Party-List Reps. Edvic Yap and Jocelyn Tulfo, Benguet Lone District Rep. Eric Go Yap and Quezon City 2nd District Rep. Ralph Wendel Tulfo.

“It is essential that we act on this matter not only out of compassion but also out of a sense of justice. No one should have to struggle with life-threatening diseases simply because they are already suffering from the effects of a disaster,” he said.

The Deputy Majority Leader urged his colleagues to reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of the Filipino people, especially those who find themselves in the most vulnerable positions by addressing the medical needs of disaster victims. (PNA)