(Photo courtesy of Philhealth)

MANILA – The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) on Thursday called on Filipinos to take advantage of its benefit packages for common eye conditions.

This is in line with the observance of the World Sight Day, ensuring its commitment to universal eye health under the Bagong Pilipinas (New Philippines) campaign.

To support Filipinos with vision problems, PhilHealth continues to provide financial coverage for major eye-related procedures and services. These include:

• Cataract surgery for children: up to PHP187,100

• Cataract surgery for adults: up to PHP80,900

• Glaucoma treatment: up to PHP12,675 (second case rate applicable)

• Diabetic retinopathy: up to PHP23,634

• Optometry package: up to PHP2,500 per year for eye examinations and eyeglasses for children aged 0 to 15

The state insurer underscored the importance of proper eye care through healthy habits such as eating nutritious food rich in vitamins A, C, and E — including carrots, spinach, and citrus fruits.

It also advised taking regular breaks to prevent eye strain by following the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds; and wearing of sunglasses to protect against harmful ultraviolet rays.

The public is reminded to visit an ophthalmologist or optometrist for regular check-ups. (PNA)