More health benefits eyed for OFWs

MANILA, Philippines - Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) may soon enjoy additional health benefits and better services from the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

OWWA chief Rebecca Calzado said the agency is looking at the possibility of providing additional health package for OFW members.

“We shall explore the possibility of extending supplemental care package for OFWs who are in need of long term medical care,” Calzado said.

The basic health insurance benefits for OFWs have been turned over by OWWA to the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth).

However, there are distressed and displaced OFWs needing long medical care and the benefits provided by PhilHealth are not sufficient for them, she said.

Thus the OWWA is studying the possibility of giving distressed workers who were extremely traumatized and needing long term medical care.

“We are reviewing our existing program and look at those that need improvement. We will prioritize and put extra attention to the displaced and those who need immediate and may require long term care,” Calzado said.