Experts discussed how universal health care plays a role in the country’s economy and overall health system in a virtual forum organized by the European Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines.
The Universal Health Care Act, or Republic Act No. 11223, was passed into law in February 2019, which, according to Health Undersecretary Mario Villaverde, “aims to ensure that all Filipinos have equitable access to quality and affordable goods and services, and are protected against financial risk of health services.“
Underscoring the importance of the UHC Law, ECCP vice president Dr. Amal Makhloufi said healthcare is a worthy investment, and that stakeholders should come up with innovative ideas and strengthen collaborations towards improving health services.
She said “all Filipinos must be able to have access to quality care and treatment, no matter their economic standing. It should be a sustainable system that ensures continued support from the health sector.”