Bottom Line: PhilHealth has launched its most comprehensive primary care program yet - the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) Para Malayo sa Sakit - offering 75 free medicines, 13 laboratory tests, 6 cancer screening tests, and digital registration through the eGovPH app to bring healthcare closer to Filipino communities.
What is PhilHealth YAKAP?
The Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) Para Malayo sa Sakit is PhilHealth’s enhanced primary care benefit package officially launched by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on July 25, 2025, at Gateway Mall in Cubao, Quezon City. YAKAP represents a significant expansion of the previous Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama (Konsulta) program that was launched in 2021.
Key Program Improvements
Expanded Medicine Coverage
- From 21 to 75 medicines now covered by PhilHealth
- Includes maintenance medicines that typically account for 40% of out-of-pocket healthcare expenses
- ₱20,000 credit line available for purchasing medicines for minor illnesses like common cold and flu
- Digital prescription system with QR codes for easy pharmacy access
Enhanced Laboratory Services
- 13 outpatient laboratory tests now available
- Previously only 15 laboratory tests were covered under Konsulta
- Tests can be conducted at accredited primary care facilities nationwide
Cancer Screening Benefits
-
6 cancer screening tests including:
- Mammogram
- Liver ultrasound
- Low-dose CT scan
- Colonoscopy
- Additional screening tests available
-
Free cancer screening at select hospitals with valid prescriptions from accredited primary care providers
Why YAKAP Was Created
President Marcos explained that the program addresses critical healthcare access issues:
“Bakit masyadong mataas ang mortality rate sa malalaking ospital, sa regional hospital, sa mga provincial hospital? Ang sagot sa amin simple lang—dahil napakalayo ng ating malalaking ospital doon sa kanilang pinanggagalingan at kaya napakahirap makapunta.”
(Why is the mortality rate so high in big hospitals, regional hospitals, provincial hospitals? The answer is simple—because our big hospitals are so far from where people come from, making it very difficult for them to go there.)
The program incorporates lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and aims to:
- Bring healthcare closer to communities
- Reduce hospital overcrowding
- Prevent illnesses from worsening
- Promote early detection and preventive care
- Lower out-of-pocket healthcare expenses
Digital Innovation Features
Streamlined Registration Process
- eGovPH mobile app for convenient online registration
- Digital transformation eliminates long queues and manual paperwork
- QR code system for prescription collection at accredited pharmacies
Multiple Registration Channels
- eGovPH Super App (recommended)
- PhilHealth Member Portal (www.philhealth.gov.ph )
- Any PhilHealth Local Health Insurance Office nationwide
- Nearest PhilHealth-accredited primary care provider
Program Goals and Impact
According to PhilHealth President Edwin Mercado, YAKAP aims to:
- Protect every Filipino’s health and well-being regardless of age
- Expand primary and outpatient care benefits beyond traditional treatment
- Focus on prevention rather than just treatment
- Make healthcare more accessible especially at the community level
- Reduce the burden on major hospitals
Who Can Benefit from YAKAP?
- All PhilHealth members and their dependents
- Healthy individuals seeking preventive care services
- Patients with chronic conditions needing maintenance medications
- Filipinos in remote areas with limited access to major hospitals
- Anyone needing basic laboratory tests and cancer screening
How YAKAP Differs from Previous Programs
| Feature | Previous Konsulta Program | New YAKAP Program |
|---|---|---|
| Medicines Covered | 21 medicines | 75 medicines |
| Laboratory Tests | 15 tests | 13 outpatient tests |
| Cancer Screening | Not included | 6 screening tests |
| Credit Line | Limited | ₱20,000 for minor illnesses |
| Registration | Manual process | Digital via eGovPH app |
| Prescription System | Traditional | QR code system |
Implementation Timeline
- Launch Date: July 25, 2025
- Immediate Benefits: Basic primary care services, medicines, laboratory tests
- Upcoming Benefits: Cancer screening tests will be activated “in the next few weeks”
- Provider Engagement: PhilHealth is actively engaging with healthcare providers for accreditation
Key Officials Present at Launch
The YAKAP program launch was attended by:
- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
- PhilHealth President Edwin Mercado
- Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa
- Special Assistant to the President Frederick Go
- Various healthcare and government officials
How to Get Started with YAKAP
Step 1: Register
Download the eGovPH mobile app or visit any PhilHealth office
Step 2: Find Accredited Providers
Locate the nearest PhilHealth-accredited primary care provider in your area
Step 3: Schedule Consultation
Book your appointment with an accredited healthcare provider
Step 4: Access Benefits
Use your digital prescription and QR codes to access medicines at accredited pharmacies
Important Notes
- Free of charge: All basic services under YAKAP are covered by PhilHealth
- Nationwide coverage: Available at accredited primary care facilities across the Philippines
- No additional payments: Members only need to pay for non-covered services
- Digital convenience: QR codes eliminate the need to return to hospitals for prescriptions
Looking Ahead
President Marcos emphasized that YAKAP represents the government’s commitment to using “all the capabilities of the entire government” to help Filipinos, especially when they are sick. The program is part of the administration’s broader goal to eventually reduce medical expenses to the point where patients may only need to pay administrative fees.
Conclusion
PhilHealth’s YAKAP program marks a significant step toward universal healthcare in the Philippines. By expanding coverage from 21 to 75 medicines, adding cancer screening services, and introducing digital convenience features, the program brings comprehensive healthcare closer to Filipino communities nationwide.
For the most current information about YAKAP benefits and accredited providers, visit the official PhilHealth website at www.philhealth.gov.ph or download the eGovPH mobile app.
This information is based on the official launch announcement and statements from government officials. For specific medical advice and eligibility questions, consult with your healthcare provider or contact PhilHealth directly.