Several beneficiaries of the Department of Health’s (DOH) zero-balance billing policy expressed their heartfelt gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during his visit to the Eastern Visayas Medical Center (EVMC) on Monday.

During his visit, President Marcos personally checked on the implementation of the policy, which the President emphasized in his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA). The policy ensures that patients admitted to basic or ward accommodations in DOH-accredited hospitals have their medical expenses fully covered, eliminating any out-of-pocket costs.

Meche Mae Colana, 21, from Brgy. Balilit, Dagami, Leyte, whose relative was treated for kidney stones at EVMC, praised the hospital for its speedy and well-organized services.

“Super efficient and effective po. Hindi siya hassle kasi maraming staff na tumutulong at inaalalayan nila ‘yung mga bantay na nag-aasikaso ng papers. Very responsible po silang magtrabaho. Thank you so much, Presidente—ang laking ginhawa po ng zero-balance billing sa amin na mahihirap,” she said.

Evelyn Pido from Alangalang, Leyte, whose child was treated after a basketball accident, echoed the same sentiment, commending the hospital for its efficiency in delivering public health services.

“Maraming salamat po dahil wala na kaming binayaran. Zero balance po ang aming bill. Malaking tulong po ito sa aming mahihirap,” she said.

Meanwhile, Kimberly Advincula, 16, from Brgy. Roxas, Burauen, Leyte, whose premature baby was confined at the hospital, expressed her gratitude for President Marcos’ leadership.

“Wala na po kaming binayaran dito sa ospital. Malaking tulong po ito sa amin, lalo na kung malaki ang babayaran. Maayos at mabilis ang serbisyo,” she said.

DOH EVMC, the largest DOH-run hospital in the region, is a Level 3 tertiary facility with 1,100 beds, serving patients from Tacloban, Leyte, Samar, and neighboring provinces.

The hospital is continually improving its systems to expand the reach and efficiency of the zero-balance billing policy, reflecting the Marcos administration’s commitment to improving the healthcare system in the country.

The President’s visit reaffirmed his belief that healthcare is a right, not a privilege, and that every Filipino deserves access to quality and affordable medical care. | PND