MediCard launches emergency care for gig workers

MANILA, Philippines — Recognizing a critical gap in healthcare access, MediCard Philippines has launched an affordable healthcare plan tailored for Filipinos in the gig economy and informal sector, who often lack traditional health benefits.

The MediCard H.E.R.O. (Health Emergency Response On?Demand) plan provides coverage for 32 emergency and non?trauma conditions – including chemical poisoning, animal bites and drowning – for a one?time annual payment of P6,000, equivalent to about P17 a day.

The plan is meant for delivery riders, Transportation Network Vehicle Service drivers, freelancers, informal workers and even solo parents, the company said in a statement.

Coverage is available at more than 600 MediCard?accredited hospitals, including top facilities such as Asian Hospital and Medical Center, Cardinal Santos Medical Center, Makati Medical Center, St. Luke’s Medical Center (Global City and Quezon City) and The Medical City, subject to “inner limits.”

The plan also offers an annual benefit limit of P60,000.

“With the booming gig economy, MediCard wants to ensure that every Filipino has access to affordable, comprehensive emergency coverage anytime – especially for those who need it most,” MediCard CEO Julian Mengual said.

Around 9.9 million Filipinos were gig workers in 2021, according to the Philippines Statistics Authority.