PhilHealth YAKAP program offers free cancer screening services at MactanMed

Eligible PhilHealth members may now access selected cancer screening services at Mactan Doctors’ Hospital (MactanMed) without paying out of pocket through the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation’s (PhilHealth) YAKAP program.

The initiative aims to encourage the early detection of cancer by providing qualified beneficiaries with access to screening tests, recognizing that many forms of the disease may not exhibit noticeable symptoms during their initial stages.

According to MactanMed, the program covers selected cancer screening procedures for PhilHealth beneficiaries who meet the eligibility requirements established under the YAKAP program.

The hospital said patients who qualify may undergo the approved screening tests without cash out, provided they comply with the necessary screening guidelines.

The hospital emphasized the importance of preventive healthcare, noting that early diagnosis significantly improves the chances of detecting cancer before it progresses to more advanced stages.

“Some cancers may not show symptoms in their early stages. That’s why screening can make a difference,” MactanMed said in a public advisory.

To avail of the benefit, patients must first obtain a Screening Test Request Form issued by an accredited YAKAP physician or an accredited primary care provider. The form serves as a requirement before scheduling a screening appointment at the hospital.

MactanMed advised eligible beneficiaries to either contact the hospital or personally visit its facility to arrange a schedule for their screening after securing the required referral document.

The YAKAP program forms part of PhilHealth’s efforts to strengthen preventive healthcare services by making cancer screening more accessible to Filipinos who are at risk or meet the eligibility criteria.

By reducing financial barriers, the program seeks to encourage more individuals to undergo regular health assessments that could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment.

Health experts have consistently stressed that routine screening plays a critical role in identifying certain cancers before symptoms develop.

Early detection often allows for more treatment options and can improve survival rates, particularly for cancers that respond well when diagnosed at an early stage.

MactanMed likewise encouraged the public to prioritize their health by taking advantage of available preventive services whenever they qualify.

“Let’s remember that peace of mind starts with getting checked,” the hospital said.

The hospital reminded interested beneficiaries that participation in the program remains subject to PhilHealth eligibility rules and the specific screening requirements under the YAKAP initiative.

Patients are encouraged to consult accredited healthcare providers for assessment and to determine whether they qualify for the covered screening services.

Through its participation in the YAKAP program, MactanMed joins PhilHealth’s broader campaign to expand access to preventive care and promote early cancer detection among Filipinos.

Hospital officials hope that greater awareness of the program will encourage more eligible individuals to seek timely screening, helping identify potential health concerns before they become more serious.

Residents who wish to learn more about the available screening services or schedule an appointment may directly coordinate with MactanMed after obtaining the necessary Screening Test Request Form from an accredited YAKAP physician or primary care provider.

Article by – Marielle Gilig, TMC Intern