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CARDIOVASCULAR diseases (CVDs) continue to be the leading cause of death in the Philippines, with access to timely and life-saving interventions remain alarmingly limited—especially in areas outside the National Capital Region.
Health experts warn that this persistent gap in health care services contributes to the number of incidents and underscores the urgent need for more inclusive, research-driven solutions across the country.
HEART HEALTH This study suppoerted by the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. aims to improve the accessibility of healthcare services for patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction or heart attacks. PHOTO FROM DOST
During the recent "Talakayang HeaRTBeat" media event at Arden Hills Suites in Quezon City, the results of research projects supported by the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) Supporting the Thrust for Universal Health Care through Data, Information, and Knowledge Exchange Systems (Studies) program were presented.
One of the key outputs is the Benefit Package for Ischemic Heart Disease – Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI), developed by a team led by Lester Sam Geroy of the Alliance for Improving Health Outcomes.
This initiative was designed to ease the financial burden of treatment for heart attack patients, especially those suffering from ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction — a severe and life-threatening type of heart attack caused by a complete blockage of a major artery supplying blood to the heart.
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The package includes four main components: percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), fibrinolysis, emergency medical services with coordinated interfacility transfers, and cardiac rehabilitation.
With the help of this study, the Benefit Package for Ischemic Heart Disease or Myocardial Infarction was successfully developed and formalized through Philhealth Circular 2024-0032.
Through this benefit, Philhealth seeks to ensure that patients receive the right treatment, at the right time and in the right facility.
The Philhealth Circular 2024-0032 also introduces several key innovations. It establishes clear referral protocols across different levels of hospitals — from primary care to tertiary facilities — to ensure the prompt and efficient transfer of patients, especially those with AMI who require urgent care.
For more information, visit www.pchrd.dost.gov.ph.
