The Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Healthcare Sector crafted several initiatives that would address challenges in the healthcare system, including the strengthening the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth).
In a statement, PSAC said strengthening the PhilHealth system is one of three priority pillars that it has identified from prior meetings with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and key government agencies. The others are providing greater drug accessibility, and building capacity and capabilities.
In strengthening the PhilHealth system, the ultimate goal is for Filipinos to be able to take advantage of a fully-implemented universal healthcare system by 2028, PSAC said.
PSAC informed the President the Council has facilitated introductory meetings with top, global consulting firms for potential third-party assessments of the PhilHealth leadership team.
The assessment will also look into the performance and processes of the agency.
PhilHealth is set to align internally for a final request for proposal based on the findings of the consultant. The proposal will be forwarded to the President.
PSAC cited the need to keep developing high-quality nurses to serve the global market, as well as offer pathways for nurses to stay in the Philippines.
It added the Department of Health (DOH) is studying long-term solutions to the national nursing shortage, including pushing for key legislation.
The Magna Carta for Public Health Workers is pending in the Senate, with a proposed standardization of nursing wages, while an additional Nursing Act is in the House of Representatives.
DOH and PSAC are proposing to work with the Department of Foreign Affairs on government support for healthcare subsidies and scholarships.
On drug accessibility, PSAC said it has consulted with key stakeholders and identified opportunities to strengthen the local pharmaceutical manufacturing industry.
PSAC recommended the forming of a technical working group to explore how to maximize the local drug manufacturing capabilities and develop local production for essential drugs.
PSAC lead convenor Sabin Aboitiz said the Philippines can effectively solve healthcare challenges through technology and innovation.
