Private hospitals have raised alarm over more than ₱7 billion in unpaid claims under the government’s Medical Assistance for Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP) program.
The Private Hospitals Association of the Philippines Inc. (PHAPI) said many patients were endorsed by political candidates who lost in the recent elections, casting doubt on whether hospitals will be reimbursed.
PHAPI president Jose de Grano noted that 40% of the group’s 1,200 members have pending claims, including ₱400 million owed to 17 Batangas hospitals alone.
The group appealed to the Department of Health to release payments promptly, stressing that services were provided in good faith regardless of political affiliations.
De Grano emphasized that indigent care should not be compromised by election outcomes or political sponsorship.
Source: PhilNews24 | May 20, 2025
