Question & AnswerQ&A (DSWD Resolution NO. 1-2008, SERIES OF 2008)
The Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2003 or Republic Act (RA) No. 9257 mandates the availability of medical and health benefits to Filipino senior citizens.
The NCMB is tasked to coordinate the conduct of a nationwide information and education campaign and other advocacy activities on RA No. 9257.
The Department of Health (DOH) directed all hospitals and health facilities to post or publish a schedule of fees in the availment of health benefits for senior citizens.
Schedules of fees must be posted in strategic areas such as admitting and billing sections, pharmacy, out-patient departments, and other ancillary service areas.
They should printout, publish, or post a schedule of medical benefits and health privileges including hospital bed rates, laboratory and diagnostic test fees, and professional fees as mandated by DOH guidelines.
Yes, the resolution enjoins all government and private hospitals, clinics, and other medical/health facilities to comply.
Hospitals are encouraged to set aside a geriatric ward or at least reserve beds for senior citizens.
DOH Administrative Order Nos. 177, Series of 2004 and 2008-0002, Series of 2008 are referenced as guidelines.
Copies are to be furnished to the DOH, DILG, DTI, Philippine Hospital Association (PHA), Federation of Senior Citizens Association of the Philippines (FSCAP), and respective Offices for Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA).
The resolution was signed by Alicia R. Bala (Undersecretary, DSWD), Encarnacion G. Blanco (Assistant Secretary, DILG), Paulyn Jean Rosell-Ubial, MD. (Assistant Secretary, DOH), Teresita R. Domingo (Assistant Secretary, DOJ), and representatives from FSCAP, VFP, ARPES, and Louise de Marillac Foundation.