Allianz PNB Life Sets New Standards for Wellness Benefits

Allianz PNB Life (AZPNBL) is again redefining what it means to be secured by prioritizing your health with the launch of Your Wellness, Your Choice campaign, giving qualified policyholders a PHP 10,000.00 flexible wellness benefit under its flagship product, Allianz Well! 

This first-of-its-kind benefit can be availed until December 31, 2025 by qualified policyholders, however they see fit – whether for fitness, mindfulness, preventive care, therapy, or even rest. It also promises easy and hassle-free claims for qualified policyholders with no receipts and no paperwork required.

“Allianz believes wellness isn’t one-size-fits-all,” said Leonardo Tan, Jr., Chief Product Provider Officer at Allianz PNB Life. “For some, it’s yoga or therapy. For others, it’s supplements, meditation, or hiking gear. With this enhanced benefit, we want to give our policyholders the freedom to decide what wellness means to them.”

Wellness that Works for You

Allianz Well! complements existing HMO and PhilHealth coverage by providing up to P100 million in comprehensive medical benefits, while enhancing support for preventive and lifestyle health. 

Allianz pushes the envelope by removing the typical rigid process of claiming benefits by making the Php 10,000.00 benefit instantly available through a single form. 

“This initiative is a result of our continuous conversations with our clients and LifeChangers. We understood their intention to take care of their health and to take a preventive stand but it can be financially burdensome. Our campaign helps ease some of the burden,” added Mr. Tan. 

To maximize the Allianz Well! Wellness Benefit, policyholders also enjoy exclusive discounts and perks from trusted Allianz Healthbox partners—ranging from diagnostic centers and clinics to mental health services, lifestyle, and fitness brands. These include 58% off on LASIK at Shinagawa, free dental consultations at Urban Smiles, 15% off plus a free eye exam at Vision Express, discounts on breast screening at Asian Breast Center, and free general consultations with lab discounts at MyHealth.

Trailblazing in Holistic Health

Typically, health plans in the Philippines don’t offer wellness support or are limited to a narrow list of services. Allianz broke new ground when it began covering benefits such as gym memberships, yoga classes, vitamins, and vaccinations. 

“This is what we want to stand for in the industry, a true partner of our clients in helping them achieve their health and financial goals,” added Tan. 

Confidence through convenience

With its enhanced benefits, AZPNBL policyholders are empowered to take charge of their health and wellness in a more convenient, meaningful way. This reflects AZPNBL’s brand commitment to putting customers first and securing their future. 

Tan adds, “The enhanced Allianz Well! Wellness Benefit is a means to empower our clients to take a more proactive approach to health and wellness. As part of the world’s #1 insurance brand, AZPNBL works with integrity, reliability, and empathy to design locally relevant solutions that will help improve the lives of Filipinos. We are here to help them protect their health today while preparing for the future.” 

To know more about the Allianz Well! Wellness Benefit, get in touch with your Allianz LifeChangers, who are equipped to help you navigate towards a healthier, more secure future. Find the right AZPNBL product for your protection at allianzpnblife.ph.

Gigacover: Bringing Insurance Closer to MSMEs through Insurtech

MANILA, PHILIPPINES—Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) comprise 99.6% of business in the Philippines, employing around 63% of the country's workforce. Despite its significant contribution to the economy, MSMEs often lack insurance, leaving both employers and employees vulnerable to risks in times of emergency.

This is not to say that MSMEs do not care for insurance. A recent study by Manulife found 36% of small business owners in the Philippines found medical, health, or accident insurance a top priority among financial products. Entrepreneurs in this sector are interested in financial protection products but find them unaffordable and complex. 

Gigacover, a regional insurtech firm, shared insights on the fundamental ways technology can change traditional insurance for MSMEs, including tailored-fit digital policies that are more affordable and simple to use.

Rise of digital insurance offers competitive protection for the underinsured 

Digital insurance can pave the way for more accessible and affordable policies. These solutions can be more adaptable to the demands of MSME workers and offer reduced premiums by providing coverage for a particular need and making distribution entirely online.

Insurtechs are also better equipped to develop insurance products that are not being addressed by insurers for several reasons, including lack of data for risk assessment, bureaucratic structure, and regulatory constraints, among others. For instance, as ride-sharing and car-sharing businesses flourished, motor accident risks increased. Gigacover’s Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) product suite helps drivers reduce accident liabilities, improving their financial security.

Seamless management of insurance in unified platform 

Customers don't always know when to use insurance products, therefore MSMEs should review their policies on a regular basis to make sure they are valid when the time comes. Analyzing existing policies will also help entrepreneurs better understand new uncovered risks as the business scales up.

However, basic tasks such as reviewing benefits, claims filing, and other processes conventionally require assistance from insurance agents. Gigacover helps companies better administer their insurance through online applications where key processes such as viewing policy information and editing subsidy caps can be done to help businesses act more quickly on their needs. The technology behind it plugs in insurers, lenders, and health maintenance organizations (HMOs) into the unified platform for easy access and administration.

Simplifying claims settlement through AI and big data

One of the most innovative ways insurtech is disrupting the insurance industry is by integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to help insurers analyze big data and identify risks quickly and accurately. As a result, risk assessment and management strategies become smart and impartial. 

Gigacover’s system is able to extract data from claims documents and images, calculate and check against limits, detect potential fraud and also decide if advance claims payouts can be done for specific customer groups. This yields higher client satisfaction and also lower loss ratios for the insurers. 

Amerson Lin, Co-Founder and CEO of Gigacover, shared, “By addressing the complexity and high costs associated with insurance, we make insurance more accessible to more Filipino MSMEs. We champion financial inclusion for MSMEs because protecting the vulnerable workers in this sector from health and income risks also financially protects the company, enabling MSMEs to grow sustainably and contribute to improved economic development.”

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About Gigacover

Gigacover was founded in 2017 in Singapore to build digital insurance programs for emerging segments. These include the gig/freelance industry, the mobility sector and now tech companies. Gigacover launched the region's first income protection insurance to meet the needs of the gig economy and then collision damage waiver for the mobility industry. Through technology and data, Gigacover automates distribution, administration and generates insights for risk management in order to bring flexible, affordable and portable benefits to its users. As of 2023, Gigacover has presence in Singapore and the Philippines and is backed by Vectr Fintech Partners, Quest Venture Partners, Alto Partners, M Venture Partners and Farsight Capital.

For more information, please visit: https://gigacover.com

Maxicare Gives Free COVID-19 Testing for Thousands of Members

To provide continuity of care and to ensure their members’ safety and well-being, Maxicare successfully recently hosted a 4-day free SARS COV2 Antibody Testing activities for 4,061 Maxicare members.
With a simple and convenient process, members simply had to register and fill out a risk assessment form online. This was a quick and easy screening process that determined their risk category. Instructions were then given based on their respective categories.

The initiative was met with much appreciation and gratitude from members and their families, both during the event and after. “Maxicare was very efficient. You will get a 1-hour window to show up and take the test in a large, events-purposed building in Bridgetowne, Quezon City. There were testing stations with proper queuing, social-distancing etc. The whole process took only about 30 mins,” Attorney Butch Dado narrated of his experience.

Benjunar Barcoma, a sales engineer from Rohde & Shwarz (Philippines) Inc., was grateful for the peace of mind it afforded him. Another member, Dr. Kenneth Y. Hartigan-Go, an Associate Professor and Head of the Stephen Zuellig School of Development Management at the Asian Institute of Management, commended Maxicare’s integration of science and heart in this time of uncertainty. “It was a well-organized COVID-19 testing one Sunday morning, offering myself peace of mind.”

Aside from the free tests, Maxicare continues to cover members infected with COVID-19. A total of 631 cases were confirmed, and 592 already recovered as of July 11, 2020. Amidst the lockdown, Maxicare clinics remained open, while strictly adhering to appropriate health protocols. Maxicare members who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and other health concerns are encouraged to call in through the 24/7 TeleConsult service to verify with licensed physicians whether or not they need to head to the hospital to avoid unnecessary exposure.

During these uncertain times, a sense of shared responsibility has seen the country coming together, while staying apart. The free test is “consistent with Maxicare’s mission of helping people achieve peace of mind through quality healthcare so they may live their best lives,” added Christian Argos, Maxicare President & CEO.

Running Tips from Coach Rio

Is it your first time running? Are you worried about sustaining injuries or running out of breath even before you can reach the finish line?

Fear not as international marathoner and RUNRIO, Inc. president Rio de la Cruz shares his expertise with beginner runners in preparation for Maxicare MAXIFEST: Live Your Best Life, Maxicare’s biggest health and wellness event.

Whether you are a rookie runner or a seasoned health enthusiast, here are some pointers from Coach Rio that can help you gear up for the race:

Remember to warm-up. Aside from increasing your heart rate, a good warm-up is important because it makes your muscles flexible and gives enough oxygen to endure the physical activities you'll be doing. This will prevent your body from feeling stiff and sore after running. You can get ready by jogging or walking briskly for 20 to 30 minutes before the actual run.

Listen to your body. Push but don't force – that is what your mindset should be when running. If you are just a beginner, it is okay if you won't be able to run as far or as fast as other runners. When you feel your feet or the side of your torso hurting, take time to stop or slow down.

Learn proper running footstrike. According to Coach Rio, the way you plant your feet on the ground makes all the difference. There are three common running footstrikes: heel style, where your heel hits the ground first; the forefoot style, where you run on the ball of your foot; and the midfoot style, where most of your foot hits the ground at once – this is the most neutral running footstrike because it balances out your weight.

Try out some functional exercises. Functional training is a way to strengthen the body by doing exercises that mimic everyday movements just like lifting groceries or walking up the stairs. These exercises play a crucial role in boosting endurance, improving balance and posture, and enhancing strength and agility.

For this year’s MAXIFEST, the country’s leading HMO has partnered with RUNRIO, Inc., one of the premiere race organizers in the country, for the Maxicare MAXIFEST run which features different running courses and distances for all sorts of runners. There will also be a Maxicare Market, a one-stop shop for ready-to-eat plant-based alternatives.

The highlight of Maxicare MAXIFEST 2019 will be the attempt to set a new Guinness World Record that aims to help support the children of Kythe Foundation, the beneficiary of the event. Kythe Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit, non-stock organization aimed towards improving the quality of life among hospitalized children with cancer and other chronic illness.

Registration to Maxicare MAXIFEST is ongoing. Simply visit https://www.runrio.com/race/registration/maxifest-2019. For more info, log on to https://www.maxicare.com.ph or https://www.facebook.com/maxicarehealthcarecorp/.


Maxicare Healthcare Corporation: One of the pioneers in the health maintenance organization (HMO) industry was established in 1987 by an esteemed group of doctors and businessmen with the vision to deliver a better healthcare system. Three decades later, Maxicare has progressed into becoming the No. 1 HMO* in the country, continuously providing comprehensive healthcare programs via its wide network of medical providers and strengthened customer support.

Maxicare has more than 1.2 Million Members, more than 56,000 affiliated Doctors, more than 1,000 affiliated Hospitals and Clinics, 3,800 Dental providers, 8 Primary Care Centers and 13 Helpdesks, 9 Satellite Offices, 5 Exclusive Wings.

Swim, Bike, Run Towards a Healthy Lifestyle

Fitness enthusiasts of all ages got together for a fun Sunday morning of swim, bike, run at the first HMO-powered triathlon, MediCard’s Sprint Tri, in Fontana Leisure Park in Clark, Pampanga.

The triathlon included a 600-m swim, 20-km bike, and 5-km run.  Athletes took several laps in the Olympic-sized pool and went on to a one-loop bike course around the Clark grounds, and a single-loop run on the rolling paths of the resort. It also featured a relay category for family, friends, or teammates.

Joining the event were MediCard president Dr. Nicky Montoya and COO Atty. Jon S. Montoya to advocate for a healthy and active lifestyle and to further show their dedication towards providing accessible healthcare to Filipinos.

“This is one of the best ways to encourage everyone – from little kids to adults, even the more senior ones – to exercise and move,” said MediCard president Nicky Montoya.

Participants of all ages finished strong with Adrian Thomas Dionisio nabbing the top spot of the 15-17 age group as he clocked in at 1:07:46, while Ian Banzon from the women’s category topped the 35-39 age group as she finished at 1:19:53.

Through the MediCard Sprint Tri, many beginner athletes were able to start achieving optimal health while having fun.

Why TeleConsult with Maxicare?

Earlier this year, Maxicare Healthcare Corporation launched its TeleConsult service, a 24/7 hotline exclusively for Maxicare members and their dependents, that allows them to connect with Maxicare-accredited doctors any time they need a consultation.

What do you get out of using TeleConsult? Let’s take a look at some of its most important advantages.

It saves you time.

A chest pain in the night, a stomachache out of nowhere – without the advantage of consultation, these ailments often lead us to take a trip to the nearest emergency room. While it’s definitely a good idea to see a professional whenever something feels off, these trips will eat up your time, especially if you have to take a day off work for them.

With TeleConsult, a quick - call is all you need to get in touch with a doctor, explain your symptoms, and hopefully get an answer to your questions about how you feel. Of course, there will be times that your consultation will lead to a recommendation to head over to the hospital anyway, but at least it won’t be every time you have a mild headache!

It saves you money.

The aforementioned ER trips and consultations aren’t just time sinks – they eat up your benefit limit as well, which could be better used for when you have an actual disease. TeleConsult is a free service that doesn’t consume your benefit limit, leaving it open for more urgent healthcare concerns.

You get peace of mind.

There’s an old joke about self-diagnosing with WebMD: Whatever your symptoms are, you always have cancer! Self-diagnosis is never recommended, especially if you have no medical training – and even doctors with years of experience will still seek a second opinion if the patient is themselves! However, it’s still tempting to look up your symptoms online and end up with a laundry list of potential diseases, fixating on the scariest ones.

If you use TeleConsult, however, you’re assured that your symptoms are looked over by a Maxicare affiliated physician, and that you receive a professional diagnosis in turn. 

A complement to traditional healthcare channels

There’s no replacement for a face-to-face trip to the doctor, and that isn’t the goal that TeleConsult wants to achieve. Instead, it’s where you go before heading over to a specialist, or where you go if you need immediate advice for a medical condition. Over time, the TeleConsult service aims to evolve into an important part of the healthcare system, with intelligent connections to wearable health technology, health management platforms, data analytics, and more, all in the name of serving up personalized, efficient, and effective healthcare services to every member.

Are you ready for your TeleConsultation? Call these numbers whenever you need to talk to a Maxicare physician: [Landline] (02) 5821980 | [Globe] (0917) 8190840 | [Smart] (0998) 8430754

To know more about Maxicare and its products and services, check out  www.maxicare.com.ph.

*This is Press Release

Maxicare Founder wins Entrepreneurship Award at the 38th Agora Awards

Dr. Roberto Macasaet Sr., Maxicare Healthcare Corporation’s Founder and Chairman Emeritus, has been awarded with the Outstanding Achievement in Entrepreneurship (Large Scale) at the recently concluded Philippine Marketing Association’s 38th Agora Awards. The awards night was held at the Maynila Ballroom of the Manila Hotel last November 9, 2017.

Now on its 38th year, the Agora Awards recognize individuals who have demonstrated excellence in the field of marketing in the Philippines. They have been running since 1979, and have been held by the Philippine Marketing Association, who aims to promote the science and ethics of the marketing profession, and uphold corporate social responsibility and corporate citizenship.

Dr. Macasaet has been instrumental in shaping the way the Philippine healthcare industry does business today, through his founding of one of the first Health Maintenance Organizations in the country. He is responsible for introducing healthcare services that have allowed for more flexible options for Filipinos of all income levels and employment. His achievement is truly worthy of recognition, not only showing exemplary business prowess but also a genuine love and concern for the Filipino people’s welfare.

He is also a medical professional by trade, having received his medical degree from the University of the Philippines, and having trained at Fordham University in General Surgery, Urology, and Pathology. He was head of Makati Medical Center’s Department of Urology for three decades, and is currently a member of that hospital’s Advisory Committee. He also serves as chairman of Associated Medical and Clinical Services, and was previously chairman of Fil Hispano Ceramics, Inc. 

When Dr. Macasaet founded Maxicare in 1987, the HMO industry was practically nonexistent. Today, it has evolved into the leading HMO in the country, and has the widest network of providers with over 1,000 partner hospitals and clinics, and over 56,000 affiliated physicians nationwide.

Under his guidance and business acumen, Maxicare has introduced such innovative products and services such as: the Maxicare Multifunction Card, the only HMO membership card that also serves as a lifestyle privilege card and EMV-enabled cash card; the EReady and MyMaxicare Lite, the very first prepaid healthcards in the industry; and the 24/7 TeleConsult Service, allowing Maxicare members to contact a doctor anytime, anywhere, without incurring deductions on their benefit limits.

Dr. Macasaet joins prestigious names from different industries such as William Tiu-Lim, CEO of Mega Global Corp, and Dr. Alfredo Bengzon, President and CEO of The Medical City, both of whom previously won the award.

*This is Press Release

Vaccination Myths and Facts

 

You may have completed your vaccinations when you were a child, but do you know that vaccines are not only for kids but for adults, too? Vaccines are among the most cost-effective health interventions available. They help ensure optimum health.

“Vaccines provide heightened protection against diseases, disabilities and even death. They prepare the body to fight diseases without exposing the person to the symptoms. Many believe immunizations are for children only. But you are never too old to get vaccinated. Newer vaccines are being developed and booster shots may be necessary to maintain the efficacy of certain vaccines. Vaccination is important especially if you have a chronic disease, are pregnant, sexually active, or if your work requires you to travel to places where you can be exposed to different diseases,” says MediCard president and CEO Dr. Nicky Montoya.

MediCard, a leading HMO provider in the country, debunks some myths on vaccinations:

Myth: Vaccines are for children only.

Fact: Vaccines don’t offer lifetime immunity to diseases; they stimulate antibody production. Almost all vaccines wear off after 5-10 years. Getting vaccinated as an adult is just as important as getting it when you are young because you might be at risk for a new or different disease. The vaccinations you need are determined by factors such as age, lifestyle, health conditions, travel, and previous immunizations. To find out what vaccines you need, consult your doctor.

Myth: Vaccines are ineffective and harmful.

Fact: Vaccines are effective and safe. They go through comprehensive testing before they are approved for general use. They are also continuously monitored for safety and effectiveness. For those who worry that vaccines will cause serious side effects, Dr. Montoya says such cases are very rare. Normal reactions to vaccination include redness, pain, and swelling in the body part where the shot was given.

Myth: Vaccines weaken the immune system.

Fact: Vaccines actually strengthen the immune system and help fight diseases. Vaccines strengthen the immune system by safely introducing an antigen, a substance that triggers the production of antibodies needed to neutralize viruses and bacteria. Vaccines also stimulate defense mechanisms that provide protection against specific diseases. Fears that vaccines can overload the immune system are unfounded because a healthy person’s immune system can recognize and handle thousands of organisms at once.

                                                                                                                          

Myth: Vaccinations are not needed if you live a healthy lifestyle.

Fact: Good hygiene, a balanced diet and an active lifestyle can help prevent the spread of diseases, but you are still exposed to germs and viruses. This is why getting vaccinated is encouraged, even if you live a healthy lifestyle, as it provides a significant level of protection from diseases.

                                                  

Learn more about vaccinations. MediCard has several free-standing clinics located in key cities nationwide that offer consultations, tests and vaccinations. Visit a MediCard clinic near you or check out their website at www.medicardphils.com for more information.

What You Need to Know About Diabetes

Diabetes is one of the most common illnesses among many Filipinos. However, did you know that you can have diabetes and be unaware of it? To prevent diabetes from becoming more serious, you should be aware of important medical facts so you’ll be able to treat it properly.

“Many people are being affected by diabetes, and some aren’t even aware that they have it. Poorly managed diabetes can lead to severe health complications such as heart disease, blindness, kidney failure, and a blood vessel disease that may require amputation. That is why it’s vital to learn more about diabetes and if needed, seek proper treatment immediately,” says MediCard president and CEO Dr. Nicky Montoya.

Here’s what you need to know about diabetes:

What is diabetes? Diabetes is a health complication wherein the body either can’t produce insulin or does not use insulin properly. Insulin is a hormone that enables the body to use glucose that is found in food for energy. There are several types of diabetes but the most common ones are Type 1, where the pancreas does not produce insulin; and Type 2, where the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or the body does not use insulin properly.

What are its symptoms? People with diabetes experience frequent urination, excessive thirst, constant hunger,  irritability, blurry vision, extreme and unexplained fatigue, wounds or cuts that are slow to heal, weight loss even if you are eating more, and tingling, numbness or pain in the hands and feet. In some cases, individuals with diabetes don’t show any symptoms. That is why it is very important to visit your doctor regularly for check-ups.

What are its complications? People with diabetes are more at risk of having other serious health problems. They are more prone to infections. High glucose levels and high blood pressure can also lead to cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, nerve disease and eye diseases, among others. To avoid complications, it’s important to regularly monitor and maintain your blood glucose levels, blood pressure and cholesterol.

How is it treated? To prevent complications of diabetes, Dr. Montoya recommends that diabetics should have a meal plan prescribed by a dietitian. Eating healthy and engaging in physical activities will help the body break down insulin better and convert glucose into energy. Some need to take insulin injections and oral agents, pills which help diabetics produce more insulin or utilize insulin better. Always remember to visit a diabetes specialist regularly to monitor your glucose level.

What should I do to prevent diabetes? To reduce your risk of diabetes, get moving and have a regular exercise routine like 30 minutes of walking a day. Dr. Montoya also recommends reducing your consumption of alcohol and processed sugars such as candies and sodas while adding more food rich in monounsaturated fats in your diet like avocados, nuts and olive oil.  

Learn how to combat diabetes. MediCard has numerous free-standing clinics located in key cities nationwide that offer endocrinology consultations. Visit a MediCard clinic near you or check out their website at www.medicardphils.com for more information.

Get unlimited check-ups with My MediCard health card

It is always advisable to consult a health professional rather than research or self-medicate whenever you feel sick. However, sometimes we have no choice but to self-medicate because check-ups with specialists can be costly. Worry no more because you can now have unlimited consultations with a medical expert with MediCard’s newest health card, My MediCard.

“Many people value the advice of a professional health expert but it can be expensive. Nonetheless, self-medication can come with its own set of dangers to your health. Thus, a consultation with a medical professional is invaluable. This is the reason we introduced a new product called My MediCard which allows members to have unlimited consultations with select MediCard accredited doctors nationwide and experience excellent medical services,” explains Dr. Nicky Montoya, MediCard president and CEO.

My MediCard is the ultimate health card for unlimited outpatient check-ups. My MediCard holders can avail of unlimited consultations with the following MediCard-accredited doctors in MediCard-accredited clinics and hospitals nationwide: family medicine, internal medicine, cardiologist, endocrinologist, pulmonologist, gastroenterologist and dentists. The new card also includes an annual oral prophylaxis (mild cases only).

MediCard also offers services such as preventive health care, hospital confinement, out-patient care, emergency care, and members’ financial assistance and dental care. With numerous free-standing clinics and satellite clinics nationwide, MediCard is committed to bringing the best and accessible medical service to its members.

Other clinic locations include MediCard Lifestyle Center, MediCard McKinley, MediCard Makati, MediCard Sta.Rosa, MediCard Alabang, MediCard Cavite, MediCard Calamba, MediCard Fairview, MediCard Ortigas, MediCard Clark, MediCard Sta. Lucia, and MediCard Cebu City.

You can avail of unlimited check-ups with My MediCard for only P3,600 and membership is good for one year. Membership eligibility includes individuals from 18 to 65 years old.

You can also check:

www.medicardphils.com and https://www.facebook.com/MEDICard.Philippines/.

Fast online approval for laboratory requests from MediCard

For some, part of having an HMO is securing a letter of approval
(LOA) for laboratory tests requested by doctors to help them
diagnose health problems accurately. These tests include blood
tests, urinalysis, chest x-ray, among others.

A letter of approval basically confirms that such tests are indeed
part of a member’s HMO coverage and authorizes the diagnostic
clinic to proceed with the requested tests. However, securing an
LOA may mean going through a process that can be slow and
inconvenient sometimes: A medical attendant gets your card,
then calls the HMO provider to advise them of the laboratory test
that needs to be done. Afterwhich, the patient waits for the
approval.

Now, Medicard, a leading health maintenance organization in the
Philippines, takes the hassle out of getting LOA as it introduces
Medicard Online LOA -- an online application that allows you to
easily request for a letter of approval for your laboratory and
diagnostic tests in the comfort of your own home or straight from
your mobile phone on the go.

“MediCard constantly aspires to make quality healthcare
accessible and more convenient for our members because we
value their time. With innovations such as the Medicard Online
LOA, we are able to eliminate a lengthy and time-consuming
wait period to get your LOA since online application allows quick
user convenience,” said Dr. Nicky Montoya.
Getting an LOA for laboratory and diagnostic tests can be done

MediCard teams up with Hanjin Subic Shipyard

MediCard teams up with Hanjin Subic Shipyard. MediCard, a leading health
maintenance organization (HMO) provider, has partnered with Hanjin Subic Shipyard to
provide innovative, advanced and efficient quality health service to its employees.
Hanjin Subic Shipyard is the 4th largest shipyard in the world and the sole contractor of Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction-Philippines (HHIC-Phil). With this partnership,

Hanjin Subic Shipyard employees now have access to MediCard’s wide network of
more than 1,000 accredited hospitals and clinics and over 40,000 accredited doctors
nationwide. In photo are HHIC-Tech President Mr. Park No Joon, HHIC-Phil Managing Director Mr. Jun Woo Yoon, Subic Shipbuilder Corporation President Mr. Kim Tae Jeon, MediCard President and CEO Dr. Nicky S. Montoya, MediCard COO Atty. Juan Andres S. Montoya and MediCard AVP for Sales and Business Development Maricel L. Torres.

Philcare Revolutionizes Health Care with NFC Cards

NFC, the radio frequency technology considered by experts worldwide as “the next best thing” in mobile transaction, continues its integration in the Philippines – this time providing much needed upgrade in the way healthcare is delivered to thousands of Filipinos.

This after leading health care provider PhilCare came up and put in operation NFC-capable membership cards designed to make availment of health services from hospitals faster, more efficient, and close to paperless.

PhilCare is the first health care provider in the Philippines to adopt and actually put into use cards with near field communication NFC technologies.

“We are proud to introduce this new technology to the HMO industry. We’ve been looking for the best technology to make medical services smoother and more convenient for our clients and providers and NFC seems to be the perfect fit for this goal,” said Noemi G. Azura, PhilCare’s President and CEO.

The NFC-capable card means to do away with the usual tedious process of availing health services from health maintenance organizations (HMO). With a single tap, hospitals and clinics can now determine coverage and benefits of a member, as well as other details of the member’s account.

Basic consultations and procedures will also be processed faster with just a single tap, since it will no longer require long waiting times just to confirm coverage.  Thanks to this new innovation, members only need to hand over their NFC-enabled health cards to any of the 200 service providers of PhilCare with NFC-capable phones from Samsung.

Making this transaction possible is NFC, a form of wireless, radio-wave technology that allows two objects – a reader device and a storage device – to send and receive information via brief contact.

The NFC technology is used by banks, retail, transport, and service providers worldwide and has been deployed to accommodate wireless payments.

This new technology is the first of its kind in the Philippine health care industry and allows patient information to be updated in real-time, ensuring quick, efficient, and accurate service.

“We are very excited with this technology and in the future we hope to set up a rewards program for members with the NFC cards,” Azura said.

“All these innovations are geared towards providing best-in-class customer service to our members. This is just the start of our foray into NFC technology, which will be part of an ecosystem all intended to bring a new brand of bridging access to health care for our members,” Azura added.

The launch of its new membership cards is only one of the many innovations PhilCare has set up to affirm its position as a pioneer in the health care industry.

In 2013, PhilCare launched its mobile application GO! Mobile, becoming the first HMO provider to bring the service to its members.

PhilCare’s Go! Mobile app is designed as a quick reference guide for members on their coverage and benefits while also giving access to complete lists of PhilCare-affiliated hospitals, clinics, and doctors.

Just last year, the mobile app introduced various updates in addition to being made compatible with iOS devices alongside Android devices. With GO! Mobile, PhilCare members no longer need to call any hotline for provider information since it is made available right at their fingertips.

In addition to its mobile app, PhilCare also recently launched its eCommerce website, becoming the first HMO provider to offer online purchases for its health care packages.

ONE TAP CLOSER TO BETTER HEALTH WITH PHILCARE

PhilCare is bringing the first NFC-Enabled HMO Card in the Philippines

With a single tap, hospitals and clinics can now determine coverage and benefits of a member’s account

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    About PhilCare: Established in 1982, PhilCare is one of the country’s pioneering Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) companies. The company is built on a vision to allow Filipinos enjoy a better quality of life by providing them access to world-class health services. Three decades after it was founded, PhilCare remains a pioneer and a recognized leader in Philippine HMO. Today, PhilCare sets the pace for the industry not only with the reliable in-patient and out-patient health care it provides, but also with the total wellness and healthy living it actively promotes.


#PhilCareNFCInnovation