Zero-balance billing policy enforced in 14 provincial hospitals
THE 14 provincial government-run hospitals in the province have been implementing a no-balance billing policy even before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s recent directive to apply such a program in all facilities managed by the Department of Health (DOH), according to a member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
In a radio interview on Wednesday, August 6, Fourth District Board Member Jerry Rosario, chair of the Committee on Health, stated that the zero balance policy has been in place in the province’s hospitals for patients admitted to regular wards for some time.
He said this program covers doctors’ fees, medical procedures, and medicines included in the DOH list. Beneficiaries are also not required to pay for any additional services or supplies.
However, Rosario explained that some district and community hospitals may have limited capacities, which could affect certain services.
Meanwhile, Rosario also confirmed that anti-rabies vaccines are also provided free of charge at the provincial hospitals, as long as supplies are available.
Dr. Tracy Lou Bitoy, head of the Provincial Management Hospital and Services Office (PMHSO), also assured during the Provincial Board’s Question Hour on August 4, 2025, that all provincial hospitals are in full compliance with the no-balance billing policy, in line with the directive of Gov. Ramon Guico III.
Free services for charity case patients include laboratory tests and diagnostic procedures. (Ahikam Pasion)
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