By Lawrence Agcaoili

The Finance Department is supporting a bill that seeks to regulate health maintenance organizations in the country, provide transparency and accountability in the healthcare system and prevent fraud.

House Bill 2403, filed by Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, will require all HMOs, except Philippine Health Insurance Corp., to get license from the Insurance Commission.

Just like other insurance companies, the Insurance Commission will supervise and oversee the operations of HMOs all over the country.

“This will clearly define the responsibilities and obligations of HMOs and healthcare providers in the country, thereby enhance transparency and accountability in the system,” the Finance Department said.

It added that the regulatory framework would help prevent fraudulent acts such as excessive claims made by HMOs and healthcare providers.

“A clear set of rules and regulations will prevent fraudulent acts inimical to the people,” the department said.

Other major HMOs operating in the country are Medicard, Maxicare, I-Care and Fortune Care.

The bill also seeks to provide fiscal incentives to HMOs and healthcare providers to encourage the private sector to enhance accessibility to quality services through affordable health insurance policies.