Effects of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) on PhilHealth awareness, preventive healthcare, and proper treatment-seeking behavior among Filipino households
Date
2017-12-21
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Abstract
This research aims to examine the effects of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) on PhilHealth awareness, preventive healthcare, and treatment-seeking behavior among the program's beneficiaries. The 4Ps is a program under the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), designed to help alleviate poverty in the country through cash assistance granted to households that meet program eligibility and fulfill certain conditions. An impact evaluation strategy called Propensity Score Matching (PSM) was used in this research to compare treatment outcomes between beneficiary households and non-beneficiary households. Results show that Pantawid Pamilya households are more likely to visit health facilities for
consultation or treatment, and are able to fulfill program conditions that target healthcare. PhilHealth membership is more pronounced among program beneficiaries, and its benefits were availed when paying for medical expenses. The study finds that Pantawid Pamilya has a significant positive impact on health outcomes of beneficiary households. It is also a valuable
tool in providing access to health care services to the poorest in the country. Policymakers must make further improvements in the program that ensure the best health outcomes for its beneficiaries, such as increasing the scope of services provided by program conditionalities and PhilHealth.
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PhilHealth, Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program, 4PS, healthcare