Tulfo Advocates for Free Dentures and Dental Checkups within PhilHealth Coverage

RAFFY TULFO – Senator Raffy Tulfo advocates for the inclusion of complimentary dentures and additional dental care services within PhilHealth coverage.

Recognizing the correlation between maintaining good oral health and enhancing one’s chances of securing employment, a senator recognizes the importance of evaluating the possibility of offering free dentures and additional dental care services to beneficiaries of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth).

Based on a report from Inquirer, this assessment is outlined in Senate Resolution No.1021 introduced by Senator Raffy Tulfo on Monday.

Senator Raffy Tulfo highlighted in the resolution that the existing provisions of PhilHealth’s coverage under the Universal Health Care law do not specifically encompass dental health services and treatments such as oral prophylaxis and complimentary dentures.

This, he said, “leaves a significant gap in access to essential dental care.”

“Dental health is an integral component of overall health and well-being, yet, access to dental services remains limited and often unaffordable for many Filipinos,” he said.

Tulfo referenced data from the 2018 National Health Survey indicating that approximately 73 million Filipinos are affected by dental caries or tooth decay.

Emphasizing the substantial connection between maintaining good oral health and one’s ability to secure employment, Tulfo underscored that many employers prioritize candidates with an attractive demeanor and a professional appearance.

“Ensuring access to dental health services is not only a matter of public health but also of economic productivity, as poor dental maintenance can adversely affect job prospects and career advancement,” Tulfo pointed out.

“The provision of dentures, as a prosthetic solution for tooth loss, can restore oral function, and enhance self-esteem and confidence for individuals who cannot afford dental treatment,” he added.

On the contrary, the lack of access to affordable dental services, including dentures, “disproportionately affects marginalized populations and weighs in on existing disparities in oral health outcomes,” Tulfo remarked.

Additionally, mental health services are being considered as potential inclusions in PhilHealth’s benefit packages.