Malacañang has ordered a full investigation into reports that a Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) member was denied medical coverage due to an alleged 24-hour confinement rule shortly before passing away.
The issue surfaced after a viral social media post by Maria Lourdes Sulit. She recounted that her husband, who needed a ₱4 million operation for a brain hematoma, died before he could be formally admitted to a hospital.
Sulit claimed PhilHealth representatives informed her that her family could not claim financial aid because her husband did not reach the minimum 24-hour confinement requirement.
During a press briefing in Kazan, Russia, Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro called for strict accountability and better service delivery from the state insurer.
“In situations like this, a proper investigation should really be conducted. We are also reminding everyone at PhilHealth—whether you are PhilHealth staff assigned to hospitals or anyone processing the benefits of our fellow citizens—to please be aware of all available coverages so that you can provide the correct information to our fellow Filipinos,” Castro said.
Castro emphasized the administration’s resolve to uncover the truth behind the incident.
“We will look into it. We do not yet know who is at fault in this matter, so a thorough investigation is being ordered,” she added.
Following the public backlash, PhilHealth issued a statement on June 14 confirming it is collaborating with the involved hospital to review the details of the case.
“PhilHealth immediately mobilized, upon learning of the incident, to understand and address the situation,” the agency stated.
The state health insurer also extended its condolences to the bereaved family while the investigation is underway.