5 Things to Consider in Selecting Health Plans from HMO Companies

Today, the Philippines has the highest medical inflation rate in Asia. With that, more and more Filipinos are convinced into availing healthcare insurances especially the ones from HMO companies in hopes of saving more money while securing their health effectively. However, though HMO companies offer different kinds of affordable health plans, there are many factors that one should consider first before signing up. Here are the following: 

1. Budget

In selecting a health plan, it’s important to research according to your budget. As per Senator Chiz Escudero, you can’t invest if you don’t have enough savings. Always consider your budget first before availing. For example, if you’re earning Php10,000 a month and your desired health plan requires you to invest Php2,500 a month, it would only be a burden to you since you’re giving away 25% of your salary. Find one that can fit your specific needs with utmost regard to affordability, with a premium that eats up about on 10-15% of your salary or less.

2. Medical History

Your medical history gives you a clearer view of what kind of medical coverage to get. For example, if you are generally a healthy person, have no medical history of having serious diseases in the family, and don’t engage in dangerous activities or sports it is best to get the lowest coverage just for emergency purposes and regular checkups. However, if you are not this type of person, you can get your hands on health plans with a higher coverage.

3. Benefits

Aside from coverage, know what benefits you can get. Study all the little details like procedures, conditions and benefits. For example, some health plans offered by HMO companies give discounts to dental services and surgery. Moreover, some benefits include accidental death, dismemberment and disablement (ADD&D) coverage. It’s important to select the plan that would give you the best value for your money.

4. Know the HMO networks

You must know where your health plan is applicable. For example, going to an in-network doctor would cost you less since insurance companies contract lower rates with in-network providers. When you go out of network, your treatment can cost your insurance company, and in turn, you, more. Therefore, if you have preferred doctors, make sure that they’re in the provider directories for the plan that you’re considering.



Note: Whatever your desired insurance is, do not settle with any plans that don’t have local in-network doctors because you might not get your healthcare’s worth.

5. Know how the customer service works

Do a research or a background check of the company you are eyeing to buy health insurance from. Research what other customers have experienced and how efficient the health insurance company is. You can also check out forums, reviews and other available information online and offline. Weigh your choices only after you’ve had a decent amount of research.



Amid different health plans offered by HMO companies in the Philippines, be a smart customer. Keep in mind the five things mentioned above for you to get the most appropriate health plan for your specific needs.