(REUTERS/ file photo)
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Monday said that the budget for Medical Assistance to Indigent Patients (MAIP) program was raised by 78 percent from P32.6 billion in 2023 to ₱58 billion in 2024.
MAIP is a national program extending financial aid to underprivileged patients.
“Among the many things that the pandemic underscored the past few years, not just in the Philippines but all over the world, is our need for equity-focused health care,” Budget and Management Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said in a statement.
“Historically, health discrepancies endure among marginalized groups, which is why our government is doing its best to give every Filipino, especially the most vulnerable, access to fair and quality medical care
The DBM said that the budget is used for the medical support of indigent patients, including but not limited to patients, outpatients, comprehensive check-ups, emergency services, and more.
The MAIP program covers Department of Health hospitals, specialty hospitals, state universities and colleges, local government units, and more.