UCMed completes first open-heart surgery under PhilHealth Z-Benefit

For many Filipinos living with heart disease, the need for open-heart surgery can feel overwhelming, both medically and financially.

The University of Cebu Medical Center (UCMed) now offers renewed hope after successfully completed on Jan. 27, 2026, its first Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) surgery under PhilHealth’s Z-Benefit program

The milestone case involved a 58-year-old male patient diagnosed with serious coronary artery disease. The feat made life-saving treatment more accessible to patients who need it most.

Through the PhilHealth Z-Benefit package, he was able to undergo the complex, high-cost open-heart procedure with significantly reduced financial burden, proving that advanced cardiac care is now within reach for qualified members.

A coronary artery bypass graft is performed on patients who are no longer candidates for angioplasty and whose blocked arteries severely restrict blood flow to the heart.

While the procedure is highly specialized and can be challenging, especially for patients with conditions, such as uncontrolled hypertension, diabetes, or kidney disease, outcomes are greatly improved when handled by a skilled and coordinated medical team.

Dr. Neil Sanico, a thoracic, cardiac and vascular surgery (TCVS) surgeon and UCMed Z-Benefit chairperson, led the surgery with fellow TCVS surgeon Dr. Peter Mancao and Dr. Arnold Tan, section head of the cardiovascular operating room.

Dr. Judith Fernando, cardiovascular anesthesia section head, joined the team together with UCMed’s Heart Center team of cardiologists, surgeons, nurses, and rehabilitation specialists.

Since 2016

“This Z-Benefit is a big help to all individuals who are financially challenged but in need of surgery,” Dr. Mancao commented.

Dr. Eduardo Lee, Jr., chief of clinics and one of the attending cardiologists, emphasized that even patients with additional risk factors can achieve good outcomes.

“Prognosis remains good in these subsets of patients since we have a team of doctors in place to ensure quality patient care,” he said.

Supported by UCMed medical director Dr. Armando V. Tan and hospital leadership, the success of the operation highlighted the strength of UCMed’s fully equipped cardiac operating room and comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation center.

Both units have supported open-heart procedures since 2016, Dr. Tan shared, a testament of UCMed’s capability to deliver advanced, life-saving treatment for patients suffering from serious heart disease.

More than a hospital milestone, this achievement sends a clear message to individuals experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or other warning signs of heart disease.

“Early consultation can save lives,” quipped Dr. Tan.

With expert specialists, modern facilities, and PhilHealth support, UCMed stands ready to help heart patients take the next step toward recovery and toward a second chance at life.

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UCMed Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
MATERNITY PACKAGE DEAL PROGRAM

UCMed eHealth for Maternity Package Deal Program
TERMS OF USE AGREEMENT

Last updated:  March 24, 2020

Please read these Terms and Conditions carefully before using the application UCMed Chat Box (the "Service") operated by  University of Cebu Medical Center ("us", "we", or "our").

Your access to and use of the Service is conditioned on your acceptance of and compliance with these Terms. These Terms apply to all visitors, users and others who access or use the Service.

By accessing or using the Service you agree to be bound by these Terms. If you disagree with any part of the terms then you may not access the Service.

To better serve the needs of people in the community, health care services are now available by the electronic transmission of information. This may assist in the evaluation, diagnosis, management and treatment of a number of health care problems for the women enrolled in UCMed Maternity Package Deal Program.  This process is referred to as “telemedicine” ,“telehealth” or “eHealth.” This means that you may be evaluated and treated by a health care provider or specialist from a distant location. Since this may be different than the type of consultation with which you are familiar, it is important that you understand and agree to the following statements.

  1. The eHealth OB-Gyn healthcare provider will be at a different location from me.
  2. I may be asked for my medical history, examinations, x-rays, tests, photographs or other images by the specialist who is at a different location.
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