PhilHealth Benefits for OFWs (Comprehensive Guide)

Summary: A detailed outline of PhilHealth coverage options and entitlements for overseas Filipino workers
Description: Learn how to enroll in PhilHealth as an OFW, maintain contributions, claim benefits and navigate requirements when you return to the Philippines

Table of Contents

1. Eligibility and Enrollment
2. Contribution Rates
3. Coverage and Benefits
4. How to Claim Benefits
5. Required Documents
6. Common Issues and Solutions
7. Tips for OFW Members
8. Frequently Asked Questions

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1. Eligibility and Enrollment

Eligibility

• Filipino citizens working under an overseas employment contract
• Household service workers abroad

Enrollment Options

• Expatriate Program
  Voluntary membership where the OFW pays both employer share and employee share based on salary credit level
• Indirect Coverage
  Dependents remain covered under a locally employed family member in the Philippines

Enrollment Steps

1. Download the Expatriate Program enrollment form from the PhilHealth website
2. Fill in personal details, contract information and PRN (PhilHealth Registration Number)
3. Submit the form plus a copy of your valid passport and work visa to the nearest Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) or accredited remittance partner
4. Secure an acknowledgment receipt with reference number

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2. Contribution Rates

Contribution Table

Contributions vary by salary credit level. OFWs pay the combined share plus a minimal administrative fee.

| Salary Credit (PHP) | Monthly Premium (PHP) | | 10000 to 24999 | 525 | | 25000 to 49999 | 1 125 | | 50000 and above | 2 250 |

Payment Methods

• Remit via POLO-accredited banks, remittance centers or online channels
• Keep all official receipts and transaction reference numbers

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3. Coverage and Benefits

Core Benefits

• In-patient hospitalization in accredited hospitals
• Day surgeries and outpatient procedures
• Case rate packages for selected conditions

Z-Benefit Packages

• Full coverage for major illnesses or catastrophic events
• Includes cancer treatments, cardiovascular procedures and renal dialysis

Additional Programs

• Maternity care and outpatient checkups
• Preventive services and health education

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4. How to Claim Benefits

Claim Process

1. Obtain the correct claim form (CF1 for in-patient, CF2 for outpatient, CF3 for Z-Benefit)
2. Attach paid contribution receipts, PhilHealth Member Data Record (PMDR), passport and work visa copy, employment contract or POLO certification, and hospital clinical abstract
3. Submit the complete package to any PhilHealth Action Center within 60 days of discharge or treatment
4. Monitor claim status via the PhilHealth website or SMS/email notifications

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5. Required Documents

• PhilHealth Member Data Record (PMDR)
• Official receipt of contribution payment
• Philippine passport and valid work visa
• Overseas employment contract or POLO certification
• For dependents: birth certificate, marriage certificate or guardianship papers

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6. Common Issues and Solutions

• Portal Login Fails
  Reset your password using the “Forgot Password” link on the PhilHealth member portal
• Missing Contributions
  Verify receipt numbers and follow up with POLO or accredited partner
• Claim Delay
  Contact the PhilHealth Action Center at actioncenter@philhealth.gov.ph or call (02) 8441 7442

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7. Tips for OFW Members

• Register as soon as you secure overseas employment
• Keep digital copies of all official receipts and acknowledgment slips
• Set calendar reminders for monthly or quarterly payments
• Use the online inquiry tool to track your contributions regularly

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8. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: When does my coverage take effect
A: Coverage starts after the first month of paid contributions under the Expatriate Program

Q: Can I file claims while abroad
A: Claims must be filed in the Philippines through POLO or any PhilHealth Action Center

Q: Are dependents covered while I am overseas
A: Dependents are not covered abroad; they remain under Indirect Coverage in the Philippines