Residents of the Davao Region now have improved access to essential outpatient medicines as the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) officially launched the Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment (GAMOT) program here on Thursday.

The GAMOT program strengthens primary healthcare and financial protection by enabling PhilHealth members to access an expanded list of 75 outpatient medicines prescribed by accredited providers under the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program.

Eligible members who consult with accredited YAKAP clinics may receive prescriptions for covered medicines, dispensed through accredited GAMOT facilities. Each member is entitled to an annual benefit allowance of up to PHP20,000 for outpatient medicines.

In his message during the launch, PhilHealth President and CEO, Dr. Edwin Mercado, emphasized that the initiative is part of a nationwide rollout under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to bring healthcare closer to communities.

“By expanding access to maintenance and essential medicines, we aim to reduce out-of-pocket health spending, especially for patients managing chronic conditions that require continuous treatment,” Mercado said.

The rollout in the Davao Region ensures that members outside Metro Manila receive equal support for their outpatient medicine needs.

Davao de Oro Governor Raul Mabanglo expressed gratitude for the program, noting its immediate impact on his constituents.

He noted that the YAKAP-GAMOT program makes healthcare accessible to all.

“What I love about this program is simple: everyone can avail themselves of it. This is not only for the sick but for everyone, even if you feel healthy,” he said.

Beneficiaries present at the launch included persons with disabilities and members of Indigenous Peoples, sectors that stand to benefit greatly from expanded access to essential health services. (PNA)