Cebu City’s poorest residents might soon face a daunting challenge in accessing affordable healthcare as the City Council debates a proposal to raise medical fees by up to 800% at public health facilities, including the Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC), Guba Community Hospital, and the City Health Department (CCHD).
Councilor Joy Pesquera argues that the increase is necessary to standardize rates, address operational costs, and align charges with PhilHealth reimbursements. But for many low-income families relying on these government-owned facilities, this move could make basic healthcare unattainable.
From skyrocketing fees for labor and delivery services to dental procedures and routine laboratory tests, the proposed rates will disproportionately burden those who can least afford it. While Pesquera claims that PhilHealth will cover much of the cost, the reality is that many Filipinos remain underinsured or unable to navigate PhilHealth benefits effectively.
In this video, we break down the details of the proposed ordinance, analyze its potential impact on Cebu’s marginalized communities, and ask: Is this the best way to address operational challenges, or will it create a healthcare crisis for the city’s most vulnerable?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments: Should public healthcare facilities prioritize cost recovery, or is affordable healthcare a fundamental right? Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights on issues that matter to Cebu City’s residents.
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