
Wisdom gained from experience is irreplaceable.
Having been immersed in the healthcare and health insurance industry for over 15 years, I’ve witnessed how these sectors have evolved. Some HMO companies have come and gone, while conglomerates have recognized the value of health by diversifying their businesses:
Ayala Corporation ventured into healthcare by acquiring a generic drugstore and is now building a hospital for cancer patients.
JG Summit integrated Maxicare into its portfolio, enhancing access to healthcare with more Primary Care Clinics in its malls.
Despite these advancements, a harsh truth remains: millions of Filipinos are deprived of free healthcare. Basic needs like medicines, treatments, and hospitalizations that could have been funded by taxpayers are still inaccessible to many.
Healthcare in the Philippines is a privilege, not a right. Only those who can afford expensive healthcare plans can protect their savings when illness strikes.
For others, the burden often falls on:
The “sandwich generation” – supporting both aging parents and dependent children.
Borrowing money or selling properties at a loss to cover healthcare expenses. This cycle of financial strain is one reason why many Filipinos choose to migrate. In countries with free or subsidized healthcare, governments ease the burden, offering security in retirement—something that remains a dream for most here.
So, what can you do to protect yourself and your family?
Start with what’s free:
Hydration is key: Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. Limit soda, sweet juices, and alcohol.
Get sunlight: 10-15 minutes of morning sunlight helps restore nutrients, especially when sleep-deprived.
Prioritize sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours nightly. If that’s tough, take 10-15 minute power naps to recharge. Sleep heals.
Exercise: Walking for 30 minutes a day—whether in the morning or evening—is affordable, therapeutic, and effective.
Manage stress: Stay calm during crises. Clear thinking leads to better solutions.
Pray: Prayer can bring peace and, often, miracles. Trust in God through Jesus Christ. While not all prayers yield the results we want, prayer offers strength and perspective.
Invest in what costs money:
Get healthcare coverage early: If you’re in your 20s or 30s and your employer doesn’t provide healthcare benefits, get a personal plan. For breadwinners, securing healthcare for your family is essential. Regular checkups are your first defense as you age.
Save and invest: Inflation erodes the value of money. Invest in assets with returns that outpace inflation to grow your wealth.
Secure life insurance: Term life insurance is critical if you have dependents. It ensures financial stability for your loved ones in case the unexpected happens. If you outlive the term, celebrate the peace of mind it brought you.
Ultimately, buying healthcare, life insurance, and investing is about protecting your finances. These investments safeguard your savings, allowing you to focus on living life fully without fear of unexpected setbacks.
Take care of your health today. Protect your tomorrow. And remember, wellness isn’t just about health—it’s about the peace of mind that comes with preparedness.
#WellnessWednesday #Health #Wealth #Healthcare #FinancialPlanning #WisdomInWellness
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