Philhealth offers benefit package for heat stroke

CEBU, Philippines — The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has announced a benefit package for members who may suffer from heat stroke or heat exhaustion amid the sweltering weather condition brought about by the ongoing El Niño phenomenon.

Philhealth chief Emmanuel Ledesma said that the state health insurer considers heat stroke a medical emergency thereby providing a benefit package for it.

“If members or their dependents need to be admitted to any PhilHealth-accredited health facilities due to heat stroke or heat exhaustion, PhilHealth provides a benefit package amounting to P8,450,” said Ledesma.

Philhealth has cautioned the public amidst the scorching heat in many parts of the country after the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) continues to record high temperatures exceeding 41 degrees Celsius.

Based on PAGASA’s heat index, temperatures ranging from 33 to 41 degrees Celsius are classified as “extreme caution,” while 42 to 51 degrees Celsius are classified as "danger”.

With such temperatures,  Philhealth said that the prevalence of heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion is high during the hot and dry season, placing certain populations such as outdoor workers, athletes, the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic medical conditions at high risk of heat cramps or heat stroke.

To avoid the health hazards brought about by exposure to extreme heat, Ledesma encouraged the public to take precautionary measures by paying attention and prioritizing safety at all times.

“Let us stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water; avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures; wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and use hats or umbrellas; and take regular breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas,” Ledesma said.

Ledesma also encouraged the public to avail themselves of consultations and check-ups for free under the Konsulta or Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama package of PhilHealth.

He said that at the first instance when one shows signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion such as fatigue, dizziness, headache, vomiting, and lightheadedness, it is best to seek medical attention.

“Dito makakatulong ang ating Konsulta Providers para ma-checkup ang pasyente at kung kailangan maospital ay mai-refer kaagad sa malapit at akmang health facility,” explained Ledesma.

He added that Philhealth members should be able to register with a Konsulta Provider of their choice to avail of primary care services which include any of 13 laboratories and 21 drugs and medicines for various health conditions. FPL (CEBU NEWS)