PRESIDENT MARCOS SUPPORTS PSAC’S PUSH FOR HEALTHCARE EXPANSION AND PHILHEALTH REFORMS

The Private Sector Advisory Council (PSAC) Healthcare Sector, in collaboration with industry leaders and the government, is driving key healthcare reforms aimed at expanding healthcare facilities and pharmacies, improving access to medicines, and strengthening PhilHealth’s support value to curb out-of-pocket healthcare spending.

At the 8th PSAC Healthcare Sector Meeting held at Malacañan Palace on March 6, 2025, discussions focused on policy reforms and strategic initiatives to strengthen healthcare accessibility and resilience. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. lauded PSAC’s proposals, highlighting the private sector’s vital role in driving healthcare reforms for the benefit of Filipinos.

PSAC has proposed updates to hospital licensing and physical facility standards to accelerate the establishment of new hospitals and other healthcare facilities. The council recommends a shift to outcome-based regulations, which would streamline hospital renewal processes and promote network-based healthcare models for better resource distribution. This reform is crucial, as the country faces a hospital bed deficit amid increasing demand.

To improve access to essential medicines, PSAC supports the expansion of community pharmacies, particularly in underserved regions. A regulatory sandbox approach is being explored to allow licensed pharmacists to oversee multiple pharmacies remotely, leveraging telepharmacy services and enhancing the role of pharmacy assistants. Data from the meeting revealed a shortage of 27,500 registered pharmacists alongside geographical disparity in terms of distribution of existing pharmacies, prompting the need for innovative solutions to improve medicine availability.

PSAC is working closely with PhilHealth to expand benefit packages, upgrade its IT systems, and enhance financial transparency. The Konsulta Program, which provides free outpatient consultations and diagnostic tests, has grown quite steadily with over 21% of Filipinos now covered, up from 0.37% in 2021. PSAC also advocated for fast-track approvals of 14 essential medicines—targeting diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and various cancers—which will further support cost reductions for patients.

“We are working towards a more equitable and sustainable healthcare system,” said Paolo Borromeo, PSAC Healthcare Sector Lead and AC Health CEO. “Collaboration between the government and private sector is key to ensuring that every Filipino, regardless of financial standing, has access to quality healthcare.”

With President Marcos’ endorsement, PSAC remains committed to public–private partnerships that drive lasting healthcare improvements, lower healthcare costs, and stronger health system for the current and future generations.