Price by Healthcare Setting
Barangay Health Center
Government-funded primary care. Staffed by a nurse or midwife, with a doctor visiting 1-3 times per week. Free consultations, free basic medicines, free vaccines (EPI). Best for: routine check-ups, vaccines, minor illness, referrals.
Rural Health Unit (RHU)
Municipal-level government health facility. Has a full-time doctor. Free or minimal fee for consultations. Free basic medicines and vaccines. Best for: sick child consultations, referrals to government hospitals.
Government Hospital OPD
Outpatient department of government hospitals (PGH, PCMC, provincial hospitals). Subsidized consultation fees. Long waiting times (2-4 hours typical). Best for: specialist consultations at low cost, complex cases.
Private Clinic Pediatrician
General pediatrician in private practice. Shorter waiting times. Most HMOs cover this. Best for: sick child consultations, well-baby check-ups, routine care. Average in Metro Manila: ₱800-₱1,200.
Specialist Pediatrician
Pediatric subspecialists: cardiologist, neurologist, pulmonologist, gastroenterologist, etc. Requires referral from general pediatrician. Most HMOs require pre-authorization. Best for: complex or chronic conditions.
Hospital ER Visit (before admission)
Emergency room consultation and initial workup. Includes ER fee, initial labs, and doctor's fee. Does NOT include admission costs. PhilHealth does not cover ER visits unless admitted. Best for: emergencies only.
Tips to Reduce Consultation Costs
Use your barangay health center first
For non-emergency illness, start at the barangay health center. It's free and the doctor can refer you if needed.
Get an HMO for outpatient coverage
PhilHealth does NOT cover private clinic consultations. An HMO (₱3,000-₱8,000/year for children) covers most outpatient visits.
Ask about PhilHealth accreditation
Always ask if the hospital or clinic is PhilHealth-accredited before admission. Non-accredited facilities cannot file PhilHealth claims.
Malasakit Center for financial help
If you cannot afford hospital bills, ask the hospital social worker about the Malasakit Center program for financial assistance.
Disclaimer
Prices are estimates based on 2026 Metro Manila rates. Actual costs vary by hospital, location, and doctor. Always confirm fees before consultation.