The integration of the flagship programs of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) and the Iloilo provincial government’s “Healthy Hearts” initiative will provide residents with a more responsive and patient-centered health system.

This was assured by Iloilo Provincial Health Office-Health Services Division chief Dr. Rodney Labis during the joint launch of the Yaman at Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) and the Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT) of PhilHealth and the Healthy Hearts, held simultaneously with the general assembly of the Barangay Health Workers Association Inc., in Passi City on Friday.

The joint launch carried the theme “YAKAP at GAMOT: Proteksyon para sa Altapresyon at Kalusugan for Healthy Hearts of Ilonggos.”

The Healthy Hearts Program seeks to improve cardiovascular health and reduce mortality caused by non-communicable diseases, such as heart diseases, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases, among others.

It includes capacitating barangay health workers and educating the community to have a healthier lifestyle.

During the launch, PhilHealth personnel were on hand to help members register for YAKAP.

The IPHO conducted screening and medical consultation under the Philippine Package for Essential NCDs (non-communicable diseases) Intervention, provided nutrition services, and offered free X-ray screening and free medicines.

“By integrating our Healthy Hearts Program with the YAKAP and GAMOT program, we create a more responsive and patient-centered health system because the medicines for Healthy Hearts can be accessed for free,” Labis said.

PhilHealth- Western Visayas Vice President Marjorie Cabrieto said that under the GAMOT program, those registered with YAKAP can avail of PHP20,000 worth of medicines.

She said that the City Health Office of Passi has applied for accreditation to be a GAMOT provider, which they intend to launch in two weeks. (PNA)