October 30, 2026 Why iCare Does Not Own Clinics: A Strategic Focus on Core HMO Business and Partnerships

In the Philippines, many HMO models have evolved to include dedicated primary care clinics as part of their service offering. iCare, a trusted health maintenance organization in the Philippines, has taken a complementary path. Rather than operate its own clinics, it has chosen to focus on its core HMO strengths while building a wide, nationwide network through strategic partnerships. 

iCare once maintained a clinic at its headquarters in Makati. Its eventual closure reflected a shift in direction rather than a retreat. Managing clinics and delivering healthcare services on the ground requires a different operational focus. iCare has instead concentrated on what it does best: structuring affordable health plans, supporting HR and employers, managing medical inflation, and expanding access to quality care across the country. 

At the center of this model are “Super Preferred Clinics” or SPCs. These function as primary care access points for members, similar in experience to traditional clinic-based systems. Today, iCare has 170 SPCs nationwide, anchored by respected healthcare institutions such as The Medical City with 80 clinics, Hi-Precision Diagnostics with 73, and Healthway Qualimed with 17. 

For members, the benefit is clear and consistent. Consultations conducted through these SPCs are not charged against plan limits. This applies to both corporate accounts and retail clients, including individual, family, and prepaid plans. Whether serving large employers or SMEs across industries such as IT-BPM, BPO, FMCG, hospitality, retail, real estate, and professional services, iCare ensures accessible and practical healthcare solutions. 

This partnership-led approach also supports scale. Based on data confirmed by multinational brokers, iCare currently ranks first among HMOs in the Philippines in terms of accredited hospitals and clinics. As of October 30, 2026, it has 2,415 accredited hospitals and clinics nationwide. Its dental network is also the largest, with 1,837 providers. Across all categories including hospital, clinic, wellness partners, doctors, and dental providers, iCare ranks second in total network size, reinforcing its position as a leading HMO with a big network. 

The company’s growth has accelerated following its strategic reset in 2023, when the Singapore-based health financing firm Value-Based Healthcare acquired iCare. The rebrand in 2024 signaled a renewed direction, combining Singaporean expertise with a deep understanding of Filipino healthcare needs. The emphasis has been on building a connected healthcare ecosystem that supports employers, members, and providers alike. 

For employers, including top employer brands and growing enterprises, this model offers flexibility and reach. HR teams can design health benefits that are both sustainable and responsive to workforce needs, supported by a nationwide network. For members, it means access to a wide range of trusted hospitals and clinics, without being limited to a single set of facilities. 

For healthcare providers, iCare continues to expand its ecosystem. Doctors, hospitals, clinics, wellness partners, and dental clinics that wish to be accredited may connect with iCare’s Provider Management Team through pm@icare.com.ph. 

In a dynamic healthcare landscape, different models can coexist and serve varying needs. iCare’s approach reflects a clear strategic choice: to focus on its core as an HMO while leveraging partnerships to deliver accessible, affordable, and high-quality care across the Philippines.