Published Paper Details:

This study focused on the social health insurance (PhilHealth) utilization by rural indigents in selected barangays in the municipality of Moncada. The study sought to determine the profile rural indigents, PhilHealth utilization of rural indigents, problems encountered by rural indigents in using PhilHealth, proposed measure for the utilization of PhilHealth among rural indigents, and implication of this study to Public Health Management. Using quantitative descriptive research, the researcher examined PhilHealth utilization of 100 rural indigents in selected barangays in the Municipality of Moncada. Using survey questionnaire, interview and documentary analysis, the researcher collected relevant data for the study. The data collected were analyzed using frequency and ranking as its primary statistical tools. Based on the responses received from 100 rural indigents in Moncada Tarlac, the following findings were derived. Majority of the rural indigents PhilHealth members belong to age bracket ranging from 18-45 years old, mostly female, with less than 10,000 pesos income monthly, with 3-4 dependents, and has been PhilHealth members for less than 5 years. Respondents got their PhilHealth membership thru 4Ps and Listahanan Program; the amount PhilHealth coverage is considered insufficient by respondents; respondents use their PhilHealth for lifestyle diseases; rural indigents prefer to use in-patient benefits of PhilHealth but rarely use their PhilHealth in a year. Additional expenses, minimal knowledge of PhilHealth coverage and benefits, and access to nearby health facilities are just some of the barriers for PhilHealth utilization by rural indigents. Additional financial subsidy and health infrastructures and increase awareness of PhilHealth coverage are just some of the intervention sought for Phil health utilization. The study recommends conducts of seminars, expansion of financial assistance thru Malasakit Centers, annual review of PhilHealth beneficiaries, development of preventive health programs, and increase number of RHUs and staffs among rural communities.