Zero Balance Billing' in DOH Hospitals Now Operational

Patients of hospitals managed by the Department of Health (DOH) need not spend a single centavo for basic accommodation as part of the government's efforts to enhance its health programs, President Marcos said yesterday.

- With Jose Rodel Clapano

"We pushed through with the zero balance billing. It's free," Marcos said in his fourth State of the Nation Address delivered at the Batasang Pambansa.

"That means the service in the basic accommodation in our DOH hospitals will no longer be paid by patients because their bill has been settled. I repeat, patients no longer need to pay because your bill has been paid," he added.

Marcos also touted the programs of state-run Philippine Health Insurance Corp., which have been expanded for the benefit of those afflicted with illnesses that are common in the country.