For many Filipinos struggling with healthcare costs, the Malasakit Center stands as a crucial bridge to government aid. Established by Republic Act No. 11463 (Malasakit Centers Act of 2019), these centers aim to simplify the process of accessing medical and financial assistance by bringing together various government agencies under one roof.

If you or a loved one are an indigent or financially incapacitated patient in need of healthcare support, here's a general guide on how to avail the services of a Malasakit Center:

Who Can Avail?

Malasakit Centers primarily cater to indigent and financially incapacitated Filipino patients. Your eligibility will be assessed by a medical social worker based on your financial situation and the nature of your medical need.

Read my Personal Experience of Availing Malasakit Center Medical and Financial Assistance to know more.

The Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

The beauty of the Malasakit Center is its "one-stop shop" approach, designed to minimize the hassle for patients and their families.

STEP ONE - Locate the Nearest Malasakit Center

Malasakit Centers are primarily established in all hospitals under the Department of Health (DOH) and the Philippine General Hospital (PGH).

Some local government unit (LGU) hospitals, State Universities and Colleges (SUCs) hospitals, and Philippine National Police (PNP) hospitals may also establish their own centers.

Upon reaching the hospital, inquire at the information desk for the specific location of the Malasakit Center.

STEP TWO - Approach the Medical Social Worker

Once at the center, proceed to the desk of the medical social worker. This professional is key to your application process.

Clearly explain your medical condition, the type of assistance you need (e.g., for hospital bills, medicines, laboratory tests), and your financial circumstances. They will guide you through the necessary steps and forms.

STEP THREE - Fill Out the Malasakit Unified Application Form

The center provides a single application form designed to cover the requirements of all participating agencies. This eliminates the need to fill out multiple forms for DOH, DSWD, PCSO, and PhilHealth.

STEP FOUR - Submit Required Documents

While the process is streamlined, essential documents are still necessary for verification. Prepare these in advance to expedite your application.

STEP FIVE - Undergo Assessment and Approval

The medical social worker will review your submitted documents and assess your financial capacity and medical need.

Once approved, the assistance is typically provided in the form of a Guarantee Letter (GL) addressed to the hospital's billing section, the hospital pharmacy, or the specific service provider (e.g., diagnostic center). This means the assistance directly covers your expenses with the institution, rather than being given as direct cash to the patient (except for specific DSWD programs for non-medical related crises like transportation or burial aid).

STEP SIX - Receive Assistance

Present the Guarantee Letter to the hospital billing, pharmacy, or other designated office. The amount covered by the Malasakit Center will then be deducted from your total bill.

Requirements to Prepare

Having these documents ready will significantly speed up your application:

Medical Certificate or Clinical Abstract: Issued by your attending physician, detailing your diagnosis, prescribed treatment, and the medical necessity of the assistance.
Hospital Bill or Statement of Account: If you are admitted or have pending bills. Ensure that your PhilHealth benefits and any other applicable discounts (e.g., Senior Citizen, PWD) have already been deducted from the total.
Prescription/Request Forms: For medicines, laboratory tests, or diagnostic procedures, with the doctor's signature and license number.
Certificate of Indigency: Obtained from your local barangay, and possibly certified or approved by your City/Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (C/MSWDO) or Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO).
Valid ID: Of the patient and/or the authorized representative (e.g., driver's license, passport, SSS ID, UMID, Postal ID).
Proof of Relationship: If the applicant is a representative (e.g., birth certificate of patient/representative, marriage certificate).
Supporting Documents (may be requested for further assessment, especially for larger amounts):

Certificate of No Real Property: From the City/Municipal Assessor's Office.
Certification of No Business: From your barangay or local business permits and licensing office.
Quotation for specific medical procedures or a detailed treatment protocol (e.g., for chemotherapy sessions).

Important Things to Remember

Varying Assistance Amounts: The amount of financial aid you receive is not fixed. It depends on your assessed need, the specific medical service, and the available funds from the participating agencies. The goal is to fill the "gap" after other benefits are applied.

Non-Cash Basis (Generally): Assistance for medical bills and medicines is typically through a Guarantee Letter directly to the hospital or pharmacy. Direct cash aid might be available for specific DSWD programs (e.g., for transportation, food during confinement) but is separate from bill coverage.

Be Honest and Patient: Provide accurate information about your situation. While the process is streamlined, there may still be a waiting period due to the volume of applications.

Malasakit Centers embody a crucial safety net provided by the government, ensuring that the burden of illness does not lead to deeper poverty for Filipino families. If you find yourself in need, do not hesitate to approach your nearest Malasakit Center.

Understanding the Government Agencies in the Philippines

To see the full list, visit The Philippine Government and Its Departments and Agencies

How to Avail Malasakit Center Medical and Financial Assistance