PIDS Launches Health Economics and Finance Program to Support Universal Health Care in the Philippines
The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) recently launched its Health Economics and Finance Program (HEFP) at the Makati Diamond Hotel, marking a significant step towards enhancing health policy research in the Philippines. The program aims to provide data-driven policy research to support the Department of Health (DOH) and PhilHealth in the implementation of the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act.
A Foundation for Evidence-Based Health Policy
The launch event convened key stakeholders, highlighting the program’s strategic importance:
- Emphasis on Research: PIDS President Dr. Aniceto Orbeta underscored the critical role of evidence-based research in shaping effective health policy decisions. He reiterated PIDS’ commitment to delivering high-quality research to address pressing national health issues.
- Whole-of-Government Approach: NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan, participating via satellite feed, emphasized the need for a unified approach across government agencies, the private sector, and civil society to achieve national development goals. He stressed the importance of collaborative efforts to ensure equitable distribution of economic growth benefits.
Key Objectives and Focus Areas
The HEFP is designed to address critical challenges in health financing and service delivery:
- PhilHealth Reimbursement Reform: The program will focus on research to inform reforms in PhilHealth’s reimbursement system, aiming to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
- Health Service Delivery Efficiency: HEFP will conduct analyses to enhance the efficiency of health service delivery, ensuring optimal resource utilization.
- Policy Decision Support: The program will provide research and analysis to support informed policy decisions related to health financing, healthcare access, and health outcomes.
“The launch of the HEFP represents a significant milestone in our efforts to strengthen the Philippine healthcare system,” stated Dr. Orbeta. “By providing robust, data-driven research, we aim to support the government in achieving its universal health care goals.”
Reinforcing Commitment to National Health Goals
With the launch of the HEFP, PIDS reaffirms its commitment to providing high-quality research that supports evidence-based policy-making. The program is expected to play a crucial role in advancing the implementation of the UHC Act and improving the overall health and well-being of Filipinos. The PIDS is set to be a strong partner of the DOH and Philhealth.
