THE Commission on Human Rights (CHR) recently condemned the alleged corruption involving the state-run Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth).
In a statement, CHR spokesperson Jacqueline de Guia stressed that corruption, in all its forms, is a human rights violation as it deprives Filipino people of their certain rights, such as healthcare.
Recently, two whistleblowers exposed the alleged “ghost” claims perpetrated by WellMed Dialysis Center, wherein the health institution reportedly continued to file claims for dialysis treatments of already deceased patients to PhilHealth.
“At its core, the immoral and unlawful diversion of funds entrusted under the care of government agencies harms the people’s human right to health and social security—specifically, in the context of recent reports exposing allegations of ‘ghost’ claims that were paid from 2016-2018 with PhilHealth funds to kidney treatments by WellMed Dialysis & Laboratory Center involving deceased patients,” De Guia said.
The CHR spokesperson noted that the alleged illegal activities and practices have deprived needy and deserving patients the access to treatments crucial in achieving a dignified life.
The CHR, meanwhile, welcomed current investigation on the case, which also pressed for the need for the proper and full implementation of the Universal Health Care Law (RA 11223).
“In the implementation of Universal Healthcare Law, we must start with making sure that its implementing rules and regulations give premium to greater transparency, better safeguards, and stronger accountability mechanisms in addressing loopholes and corrupt practices of any kind,” she said.
De Guia also reminded private healthcare sectors of their responsibility to preserve human life through the respect for human rights.
“As partners of the government is achieving the Philippine health agenda, they are called to guard their own ranks against the corrupt and ensure that no one really is left behind in achieving universal healthcare for every Filipino,” she said.