Healthcare in the Philippines

The quality of healthcare in the Philippines can be a mixed bag, ranging from world-class to bare-bones. If you’re in a major city, you’ll find well-equipped hospitals with skilled doctors. But in rural areas, healthcare facilities can be limited, with outdated equipment and a shortage of medical professionals.

The Philippines’ healthcare system operates through both public and private hospitals. While costs can be high for locals, you may find treatment more affordable than in your home country, particularly in private hospitals.

Doctors and nurses here are highly trained and often speak excellent English. Many have studied or worked abroad, as the Philippines is one of the world’s largest exporters of medical professionals. While their remittances help fuel the economy, the local healthcare system has suffered from this brain drain.

Public healthcare in the Philippines

The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) provides public healthcare in the Philippines. All citizens are entitled to coverage, and if you work in the Philippines, you’re required to enrol.

In early 2025, PhilHealth increased its benefit packages to align with rising healthcare costs and raised its premium contribution rate to ensure financial sustainability. These changes mean expanded coverage, particularly for serious conditions like cancer, rare diseases, and rehabilitation services. If you have dependants, PhilHealth provides shared coverage of up to 45 days per year for spouses, children under 21, and parents over 60.

While doctors in public hospitals are highly skilled, facilities and equipment often lag behind private hospitals. PhilHealth doesn’t fully cover many treatments, so you may still need to pay out of pocket.

Private healthcare in the Philippines

Private healthcare in the Philippines is thriving, especially in major cities where modern hospitals and specialist clinics cater to those who can afford premium treatment. If you’re looking for high-quality medical care, private hospitals are your best bet, offering advanced facilities, short waiting times, and internationally trained specialists.

Many private hospitals in the country are part of large networks that continue to expand. Metro Pacific Health, the largest private hospital network in the Philippines, operates over 20 hospitals nationwide. These hospital groups are actively acquiring and modernising smaller facilities, ensuring a wider reach of high-standard healthcare.

Medical tourism is booming, as international patients are drawn to the Philippines for its combination of world-class healthcare and relatively affordable treatments. Many private hospitals offer specialised services in fields such as oncology, cardiology, and minimally invasive surgery.

Most private hospitals require payment upfront before treatment begins. Many also offer direct billing with international health insurers, but it’s always wise to confirm coverage with your provider beforehand.

Medicines and pharmacies in the Philippines

Pharmacies in the Philippines are easy to recognise, typically marked with a green cross or the word ‘Botika’ in Filipino. You’ll find them in shopping centres, along busy streets, and near hospitals. Most signs are in English, so locating one is straightforward.

Urban areas have no shortage of pharmacies, with major chains like Mercury Drug and Watsons dominating the market. Many of these are open 24/7, offering a wide range of prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Rural areas, however, may have fewer pharmacies and limited stock, so if you’re travelling outside the city, it’s wise to bring any essential medications with you.

Recent regulations have tightened controls on OTC medications to ensure that only licensed pharmacies sell them. This means you may find stricter enforcement around certain medications that might be more freely available in your home country. Some common drugs that require a prescription in the Philippines but not elsewhere include stronger painkillers, certain antihistamines, and high-dose antibiotics.

If you’re bringing medication from abroad, check Philippine regulations before you arrive. Some medicines that are legal in other countries may be banned or restricted in the Philippines. Carry prescriptions for any essential medications to avoid issues at customs.

Health hazards in the Philippines

Health hazards in the Philippines range from mosquito-borne diseases to air pollution in major cities. Whether you’re staying long-term or visiting, it’s important to be aware of these risks and take the right precautions.

Dengue fever and malaria are common in parts of the country, especially during the rainy season from June to November. Dengue is widespread, particularly in urban areas, while malaria is more of a concern in rural regions. You should use insect repellent, wear long sleeves, and sleep under a mosquito net in high-risk areas.

Air pollution is another concern, particularly in Metro Manila and other densely populated cities. Traffic congestion and industrial emissions contribute to poor air quality, which can aggravate respiratory conditions. To reduce your exposure, avoid high-traffic areas, stay indoors during peak pollution hours, and consider using an air purifier.

Water safety is another key issue. Tap water quality is inconsistent, so it’s best to drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach infections. In some areas, heavy metals from mining activities have been linked to environmental health risks, affecting local water supplies.

Read more: Safety in the Philippines

Health insurance in the Philippines

Health insurance in the Philippines is essential, whether you’re living here long-term or just passing through. Most companies provide coverage for Filipino employees through a combination of PhilHealth and private health insurance plans. If you’re employed in the Philippines, your PhilHealth contributions will likely be deducted from your salary. If you’re a legal resident but not formally employed, voluntary enrolment in PhilHealth is an option.

PhilHealth has expanded its benefits in line with the Universal Health Care (UHC) Law, which aims to provide more comprehensive medical coverage, including primary care, diagnostics, and some specialist treatments. Still, PhilHealth alone may not offer the level of coverage you’re used to, particularly for private hospitals or specialist procedures.

Many expats and business travellers prefer to take out an international health insurance plan. If you’re considering this, look for a policy that includes key benefits like medical evacuation, maternity and newborn care, mental health support, and coverage for preventive screenings. Dental and vision care are often not included in standard plans but can be added as riders.

Medical evacuation coverage is particularly important. While private hospitals in cities are excellent, rural healthcare facilities can be limited. In the event of a serious emergency, you may need to be airlifted to a hospital in Manila, Singapore, or even your home country.

Emergency services in the Philippines

Emergency services in the Philippines vary significantly depending on your location. In major cities, you’ll find well-equipped emergency response teams, while services can be limited in remote areas. 

Some emergencies may require airlifting to a nearby country, particularly for severe trauma cases, complex surgeries, or specialised care that isn’t available locally. Singapore and Hong Kong are common destinations for medical evacuations. If you’re living in or travelling to the Philippines, check that your health insurance includes medical evacuation coverage, as costs can be substantial.

In a medical or security emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The Philippine Red Cross can also be reached at 143. Many international insurers provide their clients with a list of emergency contacts for hospitals and air ambulance services. It’s a good idea to keep these numbers handy, especially if you’ll be spending time outside of major cities.