PDLs to get PhilHealth services in new BuCor, DOH deal

Several government agencies on Monday signed a national policy seeking to promote and protect health in jails, prisons, and custodial facilities nationwide.

The National Policy on Promotion and Protection of Health in Jails, Prisons, Custodial Facilities, and Other Places of Detention was signed by Health Secretary Ted Herbosa, Justice Undersecretary Deo Marco, and Interior Undersecretary Serafin Barretto.

According to the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor), the policy would guarantee a strong collaboration that would lead to better health outcomes with the inclusion of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) in the National Health Insurance Program.

PDLs will be granted eligibility packages by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation. They are also guaranteed 24/7 healthcare services.

Under the policy, BuCor, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Bureau of Immigration, Philippine National Police, provincial jails, and National Bureau of Investigation shall allocate funds and resources and ensure its implementation.

“This endeavor will further improve the quality of healthcare services being provided by BuCor to our PDLs through the Directorate for Health and Welfare Services, " BuCor director general Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. said. —LDF, GMA Integrated News