In order to effectively implement a more rationalized and equitable contribution scheme under the National Health Insurance Program, premium contribution rates for Individually Paying Members shall be adjusted from P75 to P100 per month in accordance to PhilHealth Board Resolution No. 380, s. 2001 dated January 18, 2001.

The adjusted premium rate will be implemented starting April 1, 2001 and shall be paid quarterly, semi-annually or annually.

Furthermore, the following is being reiterated to ensure eligibility to avail of the Medicare benefits:

1. No retroactive payments for IPMs

PhilHealth shall retain the policy of No Retroactive Payments for IPMs. However, if an IPM has established sufficient regularity of contributions (i.e., has paid three consecutive quarterly contributions within one year or nine consecutive monthly contributions within the 12-month period prior to the month of availment), he shall be given a grace period of one month immediately after the missed quarter to retroactive settle his obligation. In such cases, he shall not be suspended in availing of the benefits.

2. Submission of duly validated MI-5 (Contribution Payments Return form for IPMs)

Members shall submit within five days from the date of payment the second copy (yellow) of the duly validated MI-5 to the Contributions Accounts Department, Citystate Centre Building, 709 Shaw Boulevard, Pasig City for payors within the National Capital Region (NCR), or to their respective RHIO for payors outside NCR. Members may also submit the said copy through designated drop boxes located at selected ACBs nationwide.

For the information and guidance of all concerned.

Adopted: 02 Feb. 2001

(SGD.) ENRIQUE M. ZALAMEA
President and CEO