PhilHealth Expands Z-Benefit Package for Cancer, Serious Illnesses

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is working to expand its Z-benefit package, aiming to have at least one accredited provider per zone to improve access to specialized treatment for serious illnesses like cancer.

PhilHealth President and CEO Dr. Edwin Mercado highlighted the program’s importance at the Philippine National Cancer Summit 2025, emphasizing the need to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for patients battling life-threatening diseases.

“Cancer remains one of the leading causes of death and financial burden in our country. Through the Z-package, we aim to alleviate costs for patients and ensure they receive proper treatment without financial hardship,” Mercado said.

Expanding Access to Life-Saving Treatments

The Z-benefit package covers long-term, high-cost treatments for severe conditions like childhood leukemia, kidney transplants, and breast cancer. However, only a limited number of hospitals are currently accredited to provide these services.

To address this gap, PhilHealth is working to have at least one Z-package provider per zone, ensuring that patients outside major urban areas can access specialized medical care without traveling long distances.

Integrating Early Detection into Konsulta Program

PhilHealth is also enhancing its Konsulta primary care platform by integrating early cancer detection services such as mammograms, pap smears, and blood screenings. This initiative aims to identify cancer cases earlier, allowing for timely treatment and reducing the burden on the healthcare system.

Additionally, PhilHealth is exploring the inclusion of more diseases under the Z-package and expanding coverage to include palliative and life care services for terminally ill patients.

The announcement was made at the National Cancer Summit 2025 in Quezon City, attended by Senator Risa Hontiveros, Mayor Joy Belmonte, healthcare experts, and cancer survivors.