Free laboratory tests are now available to millions of PhilHealth members at 23 clinics across the Philippines through a partnership between healthtech social enterprise 1Life and Singapore Diagnostics.
Nine tests covered at no cost
The program provides nine diagnostic tests to members enrolled in PhilHealth’s Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP). These include complete blood count, lipid profile, fasting blood sugar, oral glucose tolerance test, HbA1C, urinalysis, fecalysis, fecal occult blood test, and creatinine testing.
These tests help detect diabetes, kidney disease, and cardiovascular conditions—some of the country’s most common health issues. The initiative removes cost and accessibility barriers that often delay early detection in underserved communities.
A memorandum of agreement formalizing the partnership was signed in Pasig City by representatives of both organizations. The 23 participating branches are located in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
Preventive care as a cost-saving measure
1Life President Niño Namoco stated the partnership expands access to preventive healthcare in areas where diagnostic services have been limited. Many Filipinos, especially in geographically isolated or low-income communities, skip routine screenings due to financial constraints or lack of nearby facilities.
“Early diagnosis almost always leads to more affordable treatment,” Namoco explained. “Detecting disease before complications develop reduces the need for emergency care, prolonged hospitalization, or expensive specialist treatments.”
Free diagnostic services could lower patient expenses while easing pressure on the healthcare system by preventing avoidable hospital admissions.
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Namoco also emphasized the importance of awareness. “Many Filipinos are still unaware of the preventive benefits they’re entitled to, including laboratory screening before symptoms appear,” he said. Stronger information campaigns and community engagement are needed to address this gap.
Chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and kidney disease often progress without symptoms until complications arise. Routine screening gives patients a better chance of managing these conditions before they become severe.
The partnership represents progress, but reaching remote areas remains a challenge. The 23 clinics address only a portion of the country’s healthcare gaps. Namoco said 1Life plans to expand its network through additional collaborations.
Long-term goals for an integrated system
Singapore Diagnostics, established in 2013, operates over 60 locations nationwide and serves more than 600 hospitals and clinics. It holds accreditation from the College of American Pathologists, a rare distinction among local diagnostic facilities.
Namoco said 1Life is exploring ways to expand its healthcare offerings. These include consultations, disease screening, pharmacy services, and follow-up care. The aim is to create a connected system where patients receive continuous support.
“Our long-term vision is a system where patients can move smoothly from diagnostics to treatment and ongoing care,” he said. “Preventive healthcare requires more than early detection—it needs a full support network to keep people healthy.”
For now, the collaboration with Singapore Diagnostics brings essential services to communities that have long struggled to access them. Scaling the effort to meet the country’s needs will depend on funding, awareness, and more providers joining the initiative.
