PhilHealth now covers confinement for heat stroke

CEBU, Philippines - Summer is definitely here and has brought with it intense heat which is expected to peak this April, the season’s soaring temperatures aggravated by the onslaught of El Niño.

People should be more cautious about too much direct exposure to the sun as this can easily cause heat exhaustion which can quickly lead to heat stroke.

Heat stroke requires immediate medical attention since it can aggravate conditions like hypertension and heart illnesses, and can lead to organ failure.

A person suffering from heat stroke usually has high fever, rapid pulse, headache, dizzy spells, convulsions and delirium.

Someone showing symptoms of heat stroke should be immediately brought to the hospital. PhilHealth members or dependents admitted due to complications of heat stroke may avail themselves of benefits when confined for at least 24 hours in an accredited hospital.

PhilHealth benefits include coverage for drugs and medicines; x-ray, laboratory procedures, supplies and others; room and board; operating room; and doctors’ professional fees.

In any case of confinement, members must ensure that their premium payments are up to date, as well as their member data record (MDR). The appropriate PhilHealth claim forms must be duly filled out by the proper party (member, employer, hospital or doctor).

Members must ensure that they have read and understood the hospital statement of account detailing the amount payable to the hospital and doctor and the amount of PhilHealth benefits deducted before affixing their signature thereon. Original official receipts of all expenses incurred within the confinement period must also be submitted for proper assessment.

All claims must be filed within 60 days from the date the patient is discharged from the hospital. — /   (FREEMAN NEWS)