A measure providing for a free annual medical check-up for Filipinos hurdled second reading approval at the House of Representatives.

During Monday’s plenary session, the chamber passed through voice voting House Bill 9072, otherwise known as the “Free Annual Medical Check-up Act”, which aims to enhance programs focusing on preventive and curative medicine that advance the health and well-being of Filipinos and prevent disease, disability, and death.

Under the bill, all Filipino citizens, by virtue of their membership in the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) mandated under Republic Act No. 11223 or the Universal Health Care Law, shall be entitled to the applicable benefits under the Philippine Health Insurance Program.

Members shall be entitled to a free annual medical check-up that shall include blood sugar and cholesterol tests.

Laboratory and diagnostic tests shall be expanded, subject to the availability of PhilHealth funds.

Anakalusugan party-list Rep. Michael Defensor said primary health care includes preventive care, to which medical check-ups fall under.

“This bill aims to secure that each Filipino shall be given the chance to have a free annual medical check-up to promote their right to health and health literacy,” Defensor said.

To promote health, identify risks, and ensure early diagnosis, PhilHealth shall establish a system that allows access to a free annual medical check-up and ensure that Filipinos shall be accorded the quality health care services that they deserve.

The amount necessary for the implementation of this proposed law shall be charged against the PhilHealth funds. (PNA)