Financial Help for Glaucoma Patients in the Philippines
Living with glaucoma is not only about medical challenges. The cost of treatment and long-term care can also weigh heavily on you and your family. If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed, knowing where to find financial assistance can make a huge difference.
This guide explores the different options available in the Philippines to help glaucoma patients manage costs.
Why Financial Help Matters
Glaucoma requires regular eye check-ups, medication, and sometimes surgery.
Costs accumulate over months and years.
Delaying treatment due to money problems can lead to vision loss.
Access to support allows you to continue your care without interruption.
Government Support Programs
PhilHealth Coverage
PhilHealth provides partial coverage for glaucoma-related procedures.
Surgeries like trabeculectomy may be included under case rates.
Check with your accredited hospital for updated coverage details.
Department of Health (DOH) Assistance
DOH offers medical assistance through Malasakit Centers in public hospitals.
These centers connect you to financial aid for medicines, diagnostics, and surgery.
Social Security System (SSS) and GSIS
If you are employed, check if your contributions entitle you to sickness or disability benefits.
Long-term disability support may apply if vision loss affects your work.
Local Government Unit (LGU) Aid
Barangays, municipalities, and cities often provide cash or medicine assistance.
Apply through your local social welfare office.
Some LGUs have tie-ups with hospitals that reduce costs for residents.
Non-Profit and Charity Groups
Eye foundations sometimes offer free screenings and medicines.
NGOs and civic groups, like Lions Club chapters, run medical missions with eye care support.
Churches and community groups may provide aid for urgent cases.
Hospital-Based Financial Assistance
Public hospitals have social service departments that assess patients for discounts.
Private hospitals may also offer charity care or partner with donors.
Always ask about “indigent packages” before paying full price.
Practical Ways to Lower Costs
Buy medicines from generic drugstores when possible.
Enroll in medicine assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies.
Schedule check-ups in government hospitals instead of private clinics.
Explore telemedicine consultations for follow-ups when available.
Real Stories from Patients
A 52-year-old father in Quezon City received free surgery through PhilHealth and DOH support.
A grandmother in Cebu got her glaucoma drops through her barangay health center.
A student from Davao was able to continue treatment after applying for LGU financial aid.
These examples show how different options can combine to reduce expenses.
What You Can Do Next
Ask your doctor about all possible financial programs before starting treatment.
Visit the nearest Malasakit Center or hospital social service office.
Check if your employer or cooperative provides additional health benefits.
Connect with patient support groups for shared advice and experiences.
Key Questions to Ask
Does PhilHealth cover my type of glaucoma surgery?
Can my LGU provide regular medicine assistance?
What requirements are needed to apply for hospital discounts?
Are there ongoing medical missions in my province?
Final Thoughts
Glaucoma care does not need to leave you financially helpless. By combining government support, LGU aid, charity programs, and hospital discounts, you can ease the burden.
The key is knowing where to ask and preparing the needed documents early. Take advantage of these resources and continue your treatment without delay.
