The escalating costs of kidney disease in the Philippines are prompting urgent calls for preventative measures. Advocates are pushing for a simple, yet powerful addition to the national health insurance program – a test that can detect kidney damage long before symptoms appear.
Reynaldo Abacan Jr., a 15-year dialysis patient and president of Dialysis PH Support Group Inc., believes a proactive approach is crucial. While acknowledging progress in covering treatment costs, he argues that focusing on early detection could dramatically reduce the financial burden on individuals and the nation.
The key lies in the Urine Albumin-to-Creatinine Ratio (UACR) test. This readily available laboratory procedure identifies minute traces of protein in the urine, a telltale sign of kidney damage even when standard kidney function tests appear normal.
“Early detection allows for earlier intervention,” Abacan explained. “This way, future expenses are reduced, and you can still protect yourself from the illness.” He emphasizes the potential for significant savings, potentially avoiding tens of thousands of pesos in medical bills.
The economic impact of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the Philippines is staggering. A recent study estimates the total cost at P593.73 billion – over 41% of the country’s entire healthcare expenditure in 2023.
A substantial portion of this cost – P550.19 billion – is borne directly by families through out-of-pocket expenses. Government contributions and private health insurance cover the remainder, highlighting the immense strain on both individuals and the healthcare system.
Abacan’s organization, representing over 90,000 members, is actively lobbying for the inclusion of UACR in PhilHealth’s Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP), a primary care initiative. While initial implementation costs exist, the long-term savings are projected to be substantial.
According to the US National Kidney Foundation, UACR is a highly effective tool for early detection. It identifies damage at a stage where lifestyle changes and medical interventions can potentially slow or even halt the progression of the disease.
Currently, UACR is not among the approved laboratory tests within the YAKAP program. Despite inquiries, PhilHealth has not yet responded to questions regarding potential inclusion of the procedure.
Beyond UACR, the Dialysis PH Support Group is also advocating for the inclusion of other vital diagnostic tests – 2D Echo, ECG, and ultrasound – recognizing the financial hardship these tests pose for many patients. They report a positive reception from the agency regarding their ongoing lobbying efforts.
