Biannual Ultrasound with Alfa-fetoprotein (AFP) for screening of patients at risk to develop hepatocellular carcinoma who have or have not progressed to cirrhosis
Cycle 1 | Medical DevicesHTA Council Recommendation (as of 28 April 2026)
As a final recommendation, the HTA Council positively recommends biannual ultrasound (US) combined with alpha fetoprotein (AFP) test as a screening test for adults at high risk to develop hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) every 6 months, for financing by DOH and/or PhilHealth.
Relevant Information
- Status: With Final HTA Council Recommendation and SOH Decision
- Topic Assignment: Internal + External Assessment
- Policy Question: Should biannual ultrasound with alfa-fetoprotein (AFP) for screening of patients at risk to develop hepatocellular carcinoma who have or have not progressed to cirrhosis be funded by the government?
- Secretary of Health Decision: Approved as of 28 April 2026
Evidence and Relevant Documents