Not all Filipinos prepared to meet medical, hospitalization: study

June 26, 2019

Filipinos said they are largely unprepared to address medical and hospitalization needs, a study said.

The 2nd PhilCare Wellness Index said out of the 1,350 respondents, a total of 40 percent had admitted being unsure if they can pay  medical bills.

The study showed 35 percent said they are uncertain to afford regular medical check ups.

"Respondents admit that they lack the confidence to address medical needs," said PhilCare Wellness Index lead researcher ernando Paragas in a media briefing Wednesday.

A total of 37 percent of the respondents managed to pay their hospital bills using their savings, while 25 percent needed to seek help from friends and relatives.

The Wellness Index revealed only 15 percent and 63 percent of the respondents were able to settle their bills through their health insurance and PhilHealth memberships.

"We are at our weakest when it comes to medical and financial needs. This is where we need to improve," said Paragas.

But the study revealed many Filipinos feel "somewhat good" about their health and well-being.

''The respondents rated themselves to be in overall good health. They also believe that they enjoy the ideal weight, despite their bodies not being in tip-top shape," said Paragas.

"This sentiment on their physical health is mirrored by their psychological disposition, as respondents, on average, agreed that they lead a meaningful life, they are well-respected, and that they are satisfied with their lives," he added.

He said the contrast in the wellness index data could be a result of people thinking they are well enough, thus making medical and financial needs not  necessary.

"In a separate study that I did, many Filipinos, especially the youth, want to travel. They believe that for them to avoid illnesses, they will get away from stress and just travel," he pointed.

"But, in truth, once they get sick, they do not have the money to pay for their medical bills because they have spent it for their travels," added Paragas.

The survey had a total of 1,350 respondents, who were interviewed face to face, and from Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao, and the National Capital Region.

The PhilCare Wellness Index was first done in 2014  measure “the state of being happy, healthy, or successful” among Filipinos. DMS