GSIS, Maxicare Launch Zero-Interest Loan for Government Workers' HMO Coverage

The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) and Maxicare Healthcare Corporation have signed the first memorandum of agreement under a financing program that will make HMO coverage more affordable for GSIS members through a zero-interest loan payable over 12 months. The Ginhawa Health Assistance Loan (G-HEALTH) aims to help government employees maximize the medical allowance granted under Executive Orders Nos. 64 and 95 by providing a way to enroll in health insurance without the burden of paying the premium in one lump sum. Around 214,000 GSIS members are expected to benefit from the program’s initial rollout. GSIS president and general manager Wick Veloso said the ceremonial signing with Maxicare marks the beginning of G-HEALTH, with several more MOA signings with other health insurance providers already in the offing to give members a wider selection of health plans that suit their healthcare needs and budget. “Quality healthcare should be within every government employee’s reach. Through G-HEALTH, we are making health insurance more affordable by allowing members to pay for their HMO coverage over time without interest, while maximizing the value of their Medical Allowance,” Veloso said. The program will be open to regular GSIS members, who may also enroll their qualified dependents under their chosen health insurance package. The GSIS said that it would serve as the program administrator and financing intermediary, while participating health insurance providers will be responsible for delivering medical services, processing claims, and administering members’ benefits. –NB, GMA News