How to Claim Your ₱20,000 Free Meds: A Guide to PhilHealth YAKAP 2026
February is National Health Insurance Month, a nationwide awareness campaign that highlights the significance of social health insurance in every Filipino’s life. This year’s theme, “Pinalawak at mga Bagong Benepisyo para sa Mamamayang Filipino”, focuses on strengthening and continuously improving healthcare benefits to better address the evolving medical needs of Filipinos. This is also an ideal opportunity to remind the public of PhilHealth’s vital role in protecting Filipinos from the financial strain of hospitalization.
What is PhilHealth YAKAP
PhilHealth YAKAP (Yamang Kalusugan at Proteksyon) is a government initiative aimed at helping Filipinos safeguard their health and prevent illnesses. The program focuses on preventive care, early diagnosis, and continuous management of chronic diseases.
Members are entitled to free checkups, lab tests, and cancer screenings in the Philippines. In addition, members can receive medicines worth up to ₱20,000 per year under the PhilHealth GAMOT (Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment) package. You may refer to the list of 75 drugs and medicines available through the PhilHealth GAMOT.
Who Can Avail
YAKAP is open to all Filipinos who are registered PhilHealth members. To access the YAKAP benefits, each registered PhilHealth member must select an accredited YAKAP clinic, like Care Center Clinic. Once enrolled in your chosen Primary Care Provider (PCP) in the Philippines, members become eligible for a free First Patient Encounter (FPE) with a YAKAP physician, which includes diagnostic tests and prescription issuance.
The FPE includes a comprehensive health assessment, medical history review, physical examination, and necessary baseline laboratory tests.
Why Choose the Care Center Clinic as your PCP
- Essential Healthcare Services – Care Center Clinic provides essential medical services at Festival Mall and Gateway, from regular physical exams and preventive tests to the management of ongoing health conditions.
- Care Designed For You – Our doctors listen to your concerns, explain your options clearly, and involve you in planning the best course of action for your health.
- Strong Emphasis on Staying Healthy – Our priority is prevention. Through routine check-ups, immunizations, and practical lifestyle advice, we help reduce the risk of chronic health issues.
- Skilled and Caring Professionals – Our medical team blends knowledge, experience, and compassion to ensure each visit is both productive and comfortable.
- Access to Specialists – If advanced care is required, we assist you in connecting with trusted specialists and help manage the coordination of your treatment.
- Healthcare for Every Age Group – From young adults to seniors, we provide dependable primary care suited to different life stages and health concerns.
How to Claim Your ₱20,000 Free Medicines
Here is a simple guide to get started:
Step 1: Register at a YAKAP-accredited clinic.
Choose a trusted YAKAP-accredited clinic like Care Center Clinic Festival or Care Center Clinic Gateway, where you can conveniently complete your registration on-site. You can also register via PhilHealth Member Portal, PhilHealth offices nationwide, or eGov PH.
Step 2: Complete your First Patient Encounter (FPE).
Visit your selected YAKAP-accredited clinic and consult with a YAKAP physician to complete your First Patient Encounter (FPE). During this visit, your doctor will assess your health and issue a GAMOT prescription if needed.
Step 3: Claim your free medicines.
Present your prescription issued by a YAKAP physician and bearing a Unique Prescription Security Code (UPSC) at any GAMOT-accredited pharmacy, like VidaCure Pharmacy to claim your free medicines.
Bottomline
National Health Insurance Month is the perfect opportunity to prioritize your health. By registering at Care Center Clinic, you not only activate your PhilHealth YAKAP benefits but also gain access to quality primary care, diagnostic laboratory services, and up to P20,000 free medicines at VidaCure, a GAMOT-accredited pharmacy.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Who is eligible for the ₱20,000 free maintenance medicine benefit?
All PhilHealth members and their registered dependents are qualified.
2. Why is PhilHealth YAKAP important for every Filipino?
PhilHealth YAKAP helps you and your family monitor your well-being and prevent illnesses. You no longer need to postpone necessary laboratory tests or medications because of concerns about costs.
3. Do I need to pay for the First Patient Encounter (FPE)?
The consultation and essential services are covered under the Primary Care Benefit, provided you are registered with a YAKAP-accredited clinic like Care Center Clinic.
4. How often can I receive free medicines?
Maintenance medicines are provided based on your treatment plan and availability under the annual benefit limit of up to ₱20,000 per qualified member.
5. Can I transfer my Primary Care Provider to the Care Center Clinic?
Yes. PhilHealth members who have already completed their First Patient Encounter (FPE) may transfer to another Primary Care Provider (PCP) after one year by visiting the nearest PhilHealth office. If you have not yet completed your FPE, you may proceed to the PhilHealth office to request a change of your assigned PCP.
6. Can you claim your free medicines from VidaCure Pharmacy even if you went to a different YAKAP-accredited clinic instead of a Care Center Clinic?
Yes. As long as you have a valid prescription and it contains a Unique Prescription Security Code, you may claim your free medicines under the GAMOT List from VidaCure Pharmacy.r.