CALAMBA CITY, Laguna (PIA) – The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is encouraging its members to take advantage of free preventive health services under the Yamang Kalusugan Program or YAKAP, a benefit package designed to promote early detection and disease prevention.
In a radio interview, PhilHealth Calabarzon Field Operations Division Chief Arturo Ardiente said the YAKAP Program allows qualified members and their dependents to undergo regular medical check-ups, basic laboratory tests, and health risk assessments in accredited health facilities, even if they are not yet experiencing symptoms.
“Our government wants our citizens to be free from illness. The message of PhilHealth Yakap is, whether you are well or not, sick or not, get checked. That is our battle cry. So as we launch Yakap (program) we will further inform our countrymen of the benefits and privileges of this program,” Ardiente stated.
Under the program, members may avail of consultations and screening services such as blood pressure monitoring, blood sugar tests, cholesterol checks, and other basic diagnostics, depending on the assessment of healthcare providers. These services are covered by PhilHealth when accessed through participating government and private facilities.
Ardiente then emphasized that preventive care is a key component of the country’s Universal Health Care (UHC) Act, as it helps reduce hospital admissions and out-of-pocket expenses for Filipino families.
“Prevention is better than cure. Through YAKAP, we want to encourage members to take care of their health before they get sick,” he stated.
Members are advised to bring their PhilHealth ID or any valid ID and verify their membership status before visiting accredited facilities. Dependents who are qualified under the principal member may also avail of the benefits.
The agency reiterated its commitment to strengthening its preventive healthcare services and ensuring that quality, accessible, and affordable health care remains within reach of every Filipino. (AM/PIA Calabarzon)
