House of Representatives Budget Committee chairman and Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Elizaldy Co urged the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) to cover the professional fees of doctors treating poor patients.
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During Tuesday's deliberation on PCSO's proposed 2025 budget, Co cited challenges in implementing the Medical Assistance for Needy and Financially Handicapped Patients (MAIPP) program, which is administered by the Department of Health (DOH).
Co said DOH guarantee letters cover the medical bills of poor patients under the MAIPP program, but doctors often request that their fees be paid in cash, separate from hospital bills.
“We have put money into every hospital, but there are problems with calling a hospital, a doctor with an IPA cover (sa MAIPP), and the money cannot be paid within 30 days,” said Co.
