Agri party-list Rep. Wilbert Lee has criticized PhilHealth over complaints that its Outpatient Emergency Care Benefit (OECB) package has yet to be implemented more than a month after its supposed effectivity.
Lee wrote to PhilHealth President Dr. Edwin Mercado, citing cases where patients received no PhilHealth coverage for emergency room expenses despite the announced policy.
He warned against misleading the public with unfulfilled healthcare promises, especially when PhilHealth has substantial funds for patient benefits.
Lee described the situation as “regrettable and unacceptable,” claiming that many hospitals still do not honor the package.
In response, PhilHealth insisted that OECB has been available in all accredited Level 1 to 3 hospitals since February 14.
Source: PhilNews24 | March 28, 2025
