De Lima pushes ‘right to care’ concept in PH

The Power of Choice Empowering Patients with De Lima's Right to Care Act

In a groundbreaking effort to promote inclusivity and ensure equal access to healthcare services, House Deputy Minority Leader Leila de Lima has introduced House Bill 7068, also known as the Right to Care Act. This landmark legislation seeks to institutionalize the concept of the Right to Care card system, empowering patients to choose who will make medical decisions on their behalf when they are unable to do so.

Addressing Health Disparities and Fostering Inclusivity

De Lima's bill aims to address health disparities rooted in social stigma and discrimination, which often affect marginalized communities. The legislation seeks to promote inclusivity for individuals of diverse sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression, as well as solo parents, people in non-marital relationships, and other sectors.

According to De Lima, the current state of Philippine law effectively alienates many adult Filipinos who face discrimination and unfair treatment in healthcare settings. By institutionalizing the Right to Care concept, we can adapt our laws to respond to the changing times and non-traditional contexts and relationships of Filipinos today.

The Power of Choice Health Care Proxies and PhilHealth ID

Under the bill, patients will be able to choose their loved ones as health care agents by submitting a Health Care Proxy. This proxy will be recognized as a legally authorized representative, ensuring that medical preferences and care are respected during times of incapacity.

The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) will include this information on the PhilHealth ID, allowing healthcare providers to verify patient proxies in real-time. A secure, centralized Right to Care Registry System will also be established by the Department of Health, containing all registered Health Care Proxies.

Digital or Physical Right to Care Card Ensuring Anonymity and Accessibility

Patients will have the option to choose a digital or physical Right to Care card, which corresponds to their Health Care Proxy in the system. This innovative approach ensures that healthcare providers have access to critical information about patients' medical preferences and care, while also maintaining patient confidentiality.

Immunity Provision Protecting Healthcare Practitioners

To ensure the smooth implementation of this legislation, an immunity provision has been included to protect healthcare practitioners from liability or threats related to honoring Health Care Proxies and the decisions of health care agents. This provision will give medical professionals the confidence to make informed decisions that align with patients' wishes.

Giving Patients the Right to Choose A Testament to Love and Resilience

De Lima's bill gives patients the right to choose their loved ones as health care agents, reflecting the love, trust, and mutual caregiving responsibilities they share. As De Lima emphasized, as loved ones, they are not just individuals who know our thoughts and desires; they are our source of strength and resilience.

Conclusion

By pushing the Right to Care concept in PH, De Lima's bill has the potential to revolutionize the healthcare landscape by promoting inclusivity, addressing health disparities, and empowering patients. As we move forward, it is crucial that we prioritize the well-being of all Filipinos, regardless of their sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.

Keywords Right to Care, Health Care Proxies, PhilHealth ID, Department of Health, Philippine Health Insurance Corp., Inclusivity, Healthcare Reform

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

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