PhilHealth aims to expand Z-package with at least one provider per zone

In a bid to enhance healthcare accessibility for Filipinos battling serious illnesses, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is intensifying efforts to expand its "Z-benefit package."

The program, which provides specialized treatment for critical diseases such as cancer, aims to establish at least one accredited provider per zone to ensure equitable access to life-saving care.

This, as PhilHealth President and CEO Dr. Edwin Mercado emphasized the importance of the Z-package in addressing the country's high mortality rates due to cancer.

"Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death and financial burden in our country. Through the Z-package, we aim to alleviate the out-of-pocket expenses for patients, ensuring they receive the best possible treatment without financial hardship," Mercado said in his opening remarks at the Philippine National Cancer Summit 2025.

Certified providers

The Z-benefit package is designed to cover the cost of treatment for severe illnesses that require long-term and high-cost medical interventions. Unlike standard case rates applied to general medical procedures, Z-packages are specifically contracted out to select hospitals equipped with specialty doctors and advanced medical facilities.

Currently, only a limited number of healthcare institutions are accredited to provide Z-benefit services. 

However, PhilHealth is now working towards the goal of having at least one certified provider per zone, expanding access beyond major urban centers, and ensuring that more Filipinos benefit from specialized care.

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"Right now, our accredited providers are relatively few, but our objective is to have a minimum of one Z-package provider per zone," Mercado explained.

"This ensures that even those living outside major cities can receive the necessary treatments without having to travel long distances," he added.

Early detection

PhilHealth is also enhancing the overall cancer care pathway by integrating early detection services into the Konsulta primary care platform. 

This move aims to catch cancer cases in earlier, more treatable stages, reducing the overall burden on the healthcare system.

"We need to strengthen our preventive measures and early detection strategies. Through Konsulta, patients will have access to essential laboratory tests such as mammograms, pap smears, and blood screenings. These services will help identify potential cases sooner and allow for timely intervention," he said.

In addition to cancer care, the Z-package currently includes treatment coverage for conditions such as childhood leukemia, kidney transplantation, and breast cancer. 

PhilHealth is also actively exploring the inclusion of more diseases and expanding benefits to cover palliative and life care services for terminally ill patients.

Mercado attended the event at Novotel in Araneta City on Thursday with Senator Risa Hontiveros, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte, doctors, and health experts.

Several cancer survivors and volunteers also attended the event.  

—VAL, GMA Integrated News