DOH & PhilHealth Step Up After Cebu Earthquake: Mental Health Support & Expanded Orthopedic Benefits
Following the devastating magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Cebu on September 30, the Department of Health (DOH) and PhilHealth have stepped up to provide crucial support to the victims. The DOH has deployed mental health specialists to the province, while PhilHealth has expanded its benefits to cover expensive orthopedic treatments.
The DOH has established a rotational mental health service team in Cebu to provide much-needed psychological support to those affected by the earthquake. This team will work alongside existing local health services to ensure that mental health needs are adequately addressed.
In a significant development, PhilHealth has approved the expansion of its Z benefit package to cover orthopedic services for earthquake victims. This expansion, approved by the PhilHealth Board of Directors on Friday, will ensure that those injured in the earthquake and its aftershocks can access vital orthopedic treatments, including implants, at no cost until the state of calamity is lifted.
The DOH's mental health support and PhilHealth's expanded benefits demonstrate a commitment to holistic care for Cebu earthquake victims. These initiatives will help alleviate some of the physical and psychological burdens faced by those affected, enabling them to rebuild their lives more effectively.
