March 26, 2025

Today, members of the PAO Executive Council and the PAO Cataract Task Force held a third dialogue with key Philhealth officials to discuss implementation strategies regarding Philhealth Circular 2025-0001. We discussed indications for cataract surgery, IOL classification and quality standards on the diagnosis and management of adult cataract. Advisories are now being crafted by PHIC to clarify some issues regarding the circular. This is a significant step that will provide guidance to ophthalmologists on how to abide by the new circular. We will hold dialogues with our members, industry partners and other stakeholders in the coming weeks as the technical advisor of the PHIC. We are all working hand-in-hand to improve eye care delivery to the Filipino people.