More benefits for those with eye problems sought

SEN. Bong Go pressed for expanded benefits for people with eye problems. Go made the appeal on Saturday during the 76th National Convention of the Optometrists Association of the Philippines. He urged the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to expand patient benefits that would include visual care support such as reading glasses and prescription eyewear. Go earlier called for expanded benefit packages, higher case rates, improved outpatient and emergency coverage, and the removal of policies that limit access to benefits. He said public health funds must be felt directly by patients through lower out-of-pocket expenses, wider coverage, and better support in hospitals. “I highly commend your organization for continuously striving to elevate the standards of eye care in our country,” Go said in a video message. “Sight is one of our most vital senses, and your profession plays a crucial role in ensuring that Filipinos can see the world clearly, allowing them to lead productive and meaningful lives,” he said. Go said optometrists form part of the wider healthcare workforce that helps protect the health and well-being of Filipinos, particularly through preventive, specialized, and community-based care. “As vice chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, my advocacy has always been centered on protecting the health and well-being of every Filipino,” he said. The OAP gathering carried the theme “Optometry and the Future of Care: The Hybrid Model of Practice,” to discuss developments in eye care and the evolving practice of optometry. Go expressed hope that the group’s national convention would serve as a venue for knowledge sharing, professional collaboration, and continued improvement in the delivery of eye care services.

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