Palace Orders DOH to Expedite Medical Assistance Claims

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang has directed the Department of Health (DOH) to fast-track the processing of legitimate claims under the agency’s Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP) program. Executive Secretary Ralph Recto directed DOH regional directors and participating hospitals to verify accounts payable and promptly process valid claims under the program. “Let us ensure that access to medical assistance is readily available, especially for those facing financial difficulties,” Recto said in a memo. He stressed that delays in claim processing could hinder patients from receiving the care they are entitled to. Recto also instructed the DOH to ensure that the program is implemented efficiently and effectively. The directive comes amid growing public concern over the efficiency and effectiveness of the MAIFIP program, which aims to provide access to medical services for Filipinos who struggle to afford healthcare costs. The DOH has indicated that it will comply with the directive, seeking to streamline its claim processing procedures to ensure faster and more efficient service delivery. This acceleration is expected to provide significant relief to many Filipinos burdened by medical expenses.