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Annual Physical Exam (APE) Cost in the Philippines [2026 Price Guide]
Quick Answer: An annual physical exam (APE) in the Philippines costs ₱530-₱25,000 depending on the package tier and facility. Basic APE packages start at ₱530-₱1,100. Standard packages with blood chemistry and ECG cost ₱2,150-₱3,500. Executive checkups with advanced imaging cost ₱6,000-₱18,000. Premium comprehensive packages at top hospitals cost ₱16,800-₱25,000. Top facilities include Hi-Precision Diagnostics, Asian Hospital, and St. Luke's Medical Center.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What Is an Annual Physical Exam?
- Price Breakdown by Package Tier
- What Is Included in Each Package
- Additional Tests and Costs
- Price by Facility
- Price by City
- PhilHealth and HMO Coverage
- When to Get an Annual Physical Exam
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Introduction
An annual physical exam — commonly referred to as APE in the Philippines — is a comprehensive health screening designed to detect potential health problems before they become serious. For many Filipinos, the APE is encountered as an employer requirement: companies are mandated by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to provide annual medical examinations for employees under the Occupational Safety and Health Standards.
Beyond workplace requirements, a yearly health checkup is one of the smartest investments you can make. Conditions like hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, thyroid disorders, and even early-stage cancers are often detectable through routine screening long before symptoms appear. Early detection dramatically improves treatment outcomes and reduces long-term healthcare costs.
The cost of an APE in the Philippines varies enormously — from as low as ₱530 for a bare-bones package at a budget clinic to ₱25,000 or more for a comprehensive executive health screening at a premium hospital. This guide breaks down every package tier, what tests are included, and which facilities offer the best value.
What Is an Annual Physical Exam?
An annual physical exam is a preventive health screening that typically includes:
- Medical history review — the doctor reviews your personal and family medical history, current medications, lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol, exercise, diet), and any symptoms or concerns
- Physical examination — head-to-toe examination including vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, temperature, weight, height, BMI), heart and lung auscultation, abdominal examination, and assessment of overall health
- Laboratory tests — blood and urine tests that screen for common conditions
- Imaging — chest X-ray at minimum; higher-tier packages include ultrasound, ECG, or other imaging
- Results consultation — a physician reviews all results with you and provides recommendations
The specific tests included depend on the package you choose, your age, sex, and risk factors.
Price Breakdown by Package Tier
Basic APE Package (₱530-₱1,100)
The most affordable option, covering essential screening tests. Suitable for young, healthy individuals with no known health concerns or risk factors.
Typical inclusions:
- Complete physical examination
- Complete blood count (CBC) with platelet count
- Routine urinalysis
- Fecalysis (stool exam)
- Chest X-ray (PA view)
- Visual acuity check
Price range:
- Budget clinics (TopHealth, provincial): ₱530-₱650
- Hi-Precision Diagnostics Package 1: ₱1,100 (blood chemistry only — FBS, BUN, creatinine, uric acid, cholesterol, triglycerides, lipid profile, SGPT, SGOT)
Best for: Employees aged 20-30 with no health complaints, basic DOLE compliance, budget-conscious screening.
Standard APE Package (₱2,150-₱3,700)
Adds blood chemistry, ECG, and more comprehensive testing. The most popular package tier — provides a solid health picture at a reasonable cost.
Typical inclusions (everything in basic, plus):
- Fasting blood sugar (FBS)
- Lipid panel (cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL)
- Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (kidney function)
- Blood uric acid
- SGPT and SGOT (liver enzymes)
- 12-lead ECG (electrocardiogram)
Price range:
- Hi-Precision Package 2: ₱2,150
- Asian Hospital Starter: ₱3,700
Best for: Adults aged 30-45, employees with desk jobs, individuals wanting a thorough baseline health assessment.
Comprehensive APE Package (₱3,150-₱9,600)
Adds hormonal screening, advanced blood chemistry, and imaging beyond basic X-ray.
Typical inclusions (everything in standard, plus):
- HbA1c (3-month blood sugar average — diabetes screening)
- TSH (thyroid function)
- Total calcium
- Sodium and potassium
- Whole abdomen ultrasound
- Alkaline phosphatase
Price range:
- Hi-Precision Package 3: ₱3,150
- Asian Hospital Basic Male: ₱6,000
- Asian Hospital Basic Female: ₱7,400 (includes Pap smear)
- Asian Hospital Intermediate Male: ₱9,600
- Asian Hospital Intermediate Female: ₱11,000
Best for: Adults aged 35+, individuals with family history of diabetes/thyroid/kidney disease, those wanting more thorough screening.
Executive Health Screening (₱6,000-₱18,000)
A premium package that adds advanced imaging, cardiac screening, and cancer markers. Designed for executives and individuals who want the most thorough screening available.
Typical inclusions (everything in comprehensive, plus):
- 2D echocardiogram (heart ultrasound)
- Treadmill stress test (TMT)
- Tumor markers (PSA for men, CA-125 for women, CEA, AFP)
- Complete thyroid panel (T3, T4, free T4, TSH)
- Hepatitis B screening (HBsAg, Anti-HBs)
- Whole abdomen ultrasound
- Stool occult blood test
Price range:
- Manila Doctors Hospital: ₱6,300+
- Asian Hospital Advance 1 Male: ₱16,800
- Asian Hospital Advance 1 Female: ₱18,200
Best for: Adults aged 45+, executives, individuals with multiple risk factors (hypertension, obesity, diabetes, smoking, family history of cancer or heart disease).
Premium / VIP Health Screening (₱16,000-₱25,000+)
The most comprehensive package, often including CT scans, advanced cardiac imaging, and extensive cancer screening. Available at premium hospitals.
Typical inclusions (everything in executive, plus):
- CT scan (specific body area)
- Extensive tumor marker panel
- Complete hormonal panel
- Bone density scan (DEXA)
- Advanced cardiac markers (BNP, troponin)
- Colonoscopy referral if indicated
Price range:
- Asian Hospital Advance 2 Male: ₱22,000
- Asian Hospital Advance 2 Female: ₱23,400
- The Medical City Executive: ₱25,000+
- St. Luke's Wellness packages: Varies by customization
Best for: Individuals over 50, those with significant family history of cancer or heart disease, VIP/C-suite executives, comprehensive baseline before major life changes.
Package Comparison Table
| Package Tier | Price Range | Key Tests Included | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | ₱530 - ₱1,100 | CBC, urinalysis, chest X-ray | Young, healthy adults |
| Standard | ₱2,150 - ₱3,700 | + Blood chemistry, lipid panel, ECG | Ages 30-45, desk workers |
| Comprehensive | ₱3,150 - ₱11,000 | + Thyroid, HbA1c, ultrasound | Ages 35+, family history |
| Executive | ₱6,000 - ₱18,200 | + 2D echo, stress test, tumor markers | Ages 45+, risk factors |
| Premium/VIP | ₱16,000 - ₱25,000+ | + CT scan, extensive cancer screening | Ages 50+, comprehensive |
What Is Included in Each Package
Tests Explained
Complete Blood Count (CBC): Measures red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. Detects anemia, infections, blood disorders, and immune system issues.
Fasting Blood Sugar (FBS): Measures blood glucose after an overnight fast. Screens for diabetes and pre-diabetes. Normal: below 100 mg/dL.
HbA1c: Measures average blood sugar over the past 2-3 months. More reliable than a single FBS reading for diabetes screening. Normal: below 5.7%.
Lipid Panel: Measures total cholesterol, LDL ("bad" cholesterol), HDL ("good" cholesterol), and triglycerides. Screens for cardiovascular disease risk.
BUN and Creatinine: Measures kidney function. Elevated levels may indicate kidney disease or dehydration.
SGPT/SGOT (ALT/AST): Liver enzymes that indicate liver health. Elevated levels may suggest liver damage from alcohol, medication, fatty liver disease, or hepatitis.
TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): Screens for thyroid disorders (hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism). Thyroid conditions are common in the Philippines, especially in women.
12-Lead ECG: Records the heart's electrical activity. Screens for arrhythmias, heart enlargement, and signs of previous heart attacks.
Chest X-ray: Screens for lung conditions (tuberculosis, pneumonia), heart size, and other chest abnormalities. TB screening remains important in the Philippines.
PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen): For men aged 50+ (or 40+ with family history). Screens for prostate cancer.
Pap Smear: For women. Screens for cervical cancer and precancerous changes. Included in most female APE packages.
Additional Tests and Costs
Beyond the standard package, you may want to add specific tests based on your age, sex, and risk factors:
| Add-On Test | Approximate Cost | Who Should Consider |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis B panel (HBsAg + Anti-HBs) | ₱500 - ₱1,000 | Everyone — especially if unvaccinated |
| HIV screening | ₱300 - ₱800 | Sexually active adults |
| Thyroid panel (full: T3, T4, TSH) | ₱800 - ₱1,500 | Women, those with thyroid symptoms |
| HbA1c | ₱400 - ₱800 | Family history of diabetes, overweight |
| Tumor markers (PSA, CEA, AFP, CA-125) | ₱500 - ₱1,500 each | Ages 40+, cancer family history |
| Pap smear | ₱200 - ₱2,000 | All women aged 21+ |
| Mammogram | ₱1,500 - ₱3,500 | Women aged 40+ |
| Bone density scan (DEXA) | ₱2,000 - ₱5,000 | Postmenopausal women, men 65+ |
| 2D echocardiogram | ₱3,000 - ₱5,000 | Hypertension, heart concerns |
| Treadmill stress test | ₱3,000 - ₱5,000 | Chest pain, cardiac risk factors |
| Whole abdomen ultrasound | ₱2,000 - ₱3,500 | Ages 35+, abdominal symptoms |
| Flu vaccine | ₱1,620 | Annually recommended |
Price by Facility
Diagnostic Centers
| Facility | Basic Package | Standard Package | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hi-Precision Diagnostics | ₱1,100 (Package 1) | ₱2,150 (Package 2) | Nationwide, Package 3 at ₱3,150 |
| TopHealth | ₱530+ | Varies | Budget-friendly option |
| Healthway / QualiMed | ₱1,500-₱3,000 | ₱3,000-₱8,000 | Mid-range, corporate packages |
| NWDI (Nationwide) | Varies | Varies | Multiple branches |
| Health Cube Medical | Varies | Varies | Metro Manila |
Hospitals
| Facility | Starter/Basic | Intermediate | Advanced/Executive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asian Hospital | ₱3,700 (Starter) | ₱6,000-₱11,000 | ₱16,800-₱23,400 |
| Manila Doctors Hospital | — | ₱6,300+ | Higher tiers available |
| The Medical City | — | Varies | Up to ₱25,000+ |
| St. Luke's Medical Center | — | Varies | Custom wellness packages |
| Makati Medical Center | — | Varies | Executive packages available |
| Cardinal Santos Medical Center | — | Varies | Corporate and individual |
| UST Hospital | — | Varies | More affordable hospital option |
Male vs. Female Pricing
Female packages typically cost ₱1,400-₱2,000 more than male packages at the same tier because they include:
- Pap smear (conventional or liquid-based)
- Breast examination
- Sometimes mammogram or pelvic ultrasound at higher tiers
At Asian Hospital, for example:
- Basic Male: ₱6,000 vs. Basic Female: ₱7,400 (₱1,400 difference)
- Advance 1 Male: ₱16,800 vs. Advance 1 Female: ₱18,200 (₱1,400 difference)
- Advance 2 Male: ₱22,000 vs. Advance 2 Female: ₱23,400 (₱1,400 difference)
Price by City
| City | Basic APE | Standard APE | Executive APE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro Manila | ₱1,000 - ₱1,500 | ₱2,150 - ₱5,000 | ₱6,000 - ₱25,000 |
| Cebu City | ₱800 - ₱1,500 | ₱2,000 - ₱4,000 | ₱5,000 - ₱15,000 |
| Davao City | ₱800 - ₱1,500 | ₱2,000 - ₱4,000 | ₱5,000 - ₱15,000 |
| Clark/Pampanga | ₱650 - ₱1,200 | ₱1,500 - ₱3,500 | ₱4,000 - ₱12,000 |
| Provincial areas | ₱530 - ₱1,000 | ₱1,500 - ₱3,000 | Limited availability |
Note: Provincial and non-NCR areas generally have fewer options for executive-tier packages. Patients seeking comprehensive screening in provincial areas may need to travel to the nearest major city.
PhilHealth and HMO Coverage
PhilHealth
PhilHealth does not cover annual physical exams or executive health screenings as these are classified as preventive health services, not treatment for illness. PhilHealth coverage applies when you are diagnosed with and treated for a specific condition.
However, if your APE results reveal a condition that requires treatment (e.g., newly diagnosed diabetes, thyroid disorder), subsequent diagnostic workup and treatment may be covered under PhilHealth's benefit packages.
HMO Coverage
Most HMO plans in the Philippines include an annual physical exam benefit as part of the plan. Coverage varies by plan tier:
- Basic HMO plans: May cover a basic APE package (CBC, urinalysis, chest X-ray, physical exam)
- Standard HMO plans: May cover standard APE with blood chemistry and ECG
- Premium HMO plans: May cover comprehensive or executive-level screening
Important: Check your HMO plan documents for:
- Approved facilities: Your HMO may only cover APE at accredited clinics (e.g., Hi-Precision, Healthway, specific hospitals)
- Package inclusions: The HMO benefit may not cover all tests in a facility's package — you may need to pay out-of-pocket for add-ons
- Waiting period: New HMO members may have a waiting period before APE benefits activate
- Annual limits: Some plans only cover one APE per year
Corporate APE
Under DOLE's Occupational Safety and Health Standards (OSHS), employers are required to provide annual medical examinations for employees. The employer typically:
- Selects an accredited diagnostic center or hospital
- Covers the cost of the basic-to-standard APE package
- May offer employees the option to upgrade to a higher package at their own expense
If your employer provides a corporate APE, take full advantage of it — it is a valuable benefit that costs you nothing.
When to Get an Annual Physical Exam
By Age Group
| Age | Recommended Package | Key Tests to Prioritize |
|---|---|---|
| 20-29 | Basic | CBC, blood typing, STI screening if sexually active |
| 30-39 | Standard | + FBS, lipid panel, ECG, thyroid (women) |
| 40-49 | Comprehensive | + HbA1c, tumor markers, Pap smear, mammogram |
| 50-59 | Executive | + 2D echo, stress test, PSA (men), colonoscopy screening |
| 60+ | Premium | + bone density, extensive cardiac workup, cancer screening |
Red Flags That Mean You Should Not Wait Until Your Annual Checkup
Schedule an appointment with a doctor immediately (not just an APE) if you experience:
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Persistent fatigue that is not relieved by rest
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, or palpitations
- Blood in urine, stool, or cough
- Persistent headaches or vision changes
- A lump or mass anywhere on the body
- Unexplained bleeding or bruising
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to fast before my APE?
Yes, if your package includes fasting blood sugar, lipid panel, or other blood chemistry tests. You should fast for 8-12 hours before the exam (no food, only water). Schedule your APE first thing in the morning, and eat a light dinner the night before. Avoid alcohol for 24-48 hours before the exam.
How long does an APE take?
- Basic package: 1-2 hours
- Standard package: 2-3 hours
- Executive package: 3-5 hours (or half a day)
- Results availability: Same day for basic tests; 3-7 days for comprehensive panels; some tests (tumor markers, cultures) may take up to 2 weeks
Is an APE at a diagnostic center as good as a hospital?
For standard health screening, yes. Diagnostic centers like Hi-Precision use the same laboratory equipment and standards as hospitals, often at significantly lower prices. Hospital-based executive checkups offer advantages when you want: (1) immediate specialist referral if something abnormal is found, (2) access to advanced imaging (CT, MRI) on-site, and (3) a VIP patient experience. For routine annual screening, a reputable diagnostic center provides excellent value.
What should I bring to my APE?
- Valid government ID (for registration)
- HMO card (if your HMO covers the APE)
- Previous APE results (for comparison — very useful for tracking trends)
- List of current medications and supplements
- List of symptoms or concerns you want to discuss with the doctor
- Comfortable clothing (you may need to change into a hospital gown)
- Morning urine sample (some clinics request you bring the first urine of the day in a sterile container)
Can I claim my APE cost from my employer?
If your employer does not provide a company-sponsored APE, you can ask your HR department about reimbursement policies. Some companies reimburse APE expenses up to a certain amount. If your company has an HMO benefit, check if the APE is covered under your plan. Under DOLE requirements, employers are obligated to provide annual medical exams — but the specific package level is at the employer's discretion.
Senior citizen discount on APE?
Yes. Senior citizens (aged 60+) are entitled to a 20% discount on medical services and laboratory tests under Republic Act 9994 (Expanded Senior Citizens Act). At Hi-Precision, for example, this discount applies to all services. Present your senior citizen ID when registering.
Conclusion
An annual physical exam is one of the most cost-effective healthcare investments a Filipino can make. Detecting conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or thyroid disorders early can save hundreds of thousands of pesos in future treatment costs — not to mention significantly better health outcomes.
Budget option: Hi-Precision Package 1 (₱1,100) or TopHealth (₱530+) for essential blood chemistry screening. Perfect for young, healthy adults with no complaints.
Best value: Hi-Precision Package 2 (₱2,150) or Asian Hospital Starter (₱3,700) for a well-rounded screening including blood chemistry, ECG, and chest X-ray. The sweet spot for most working adults.
Comprehensive option: Asian Hospital Basic or Intermediate packages (₱6,000-₱11,000) for thorough screening with additional tests and ultrasound. Ideal for ages 35+ or those with risk factors.
Premium option: Asian Hospital Advance packages (₱16,800-₱23,400) or hospital executive checkups (₱6,300-₱25,000) for the most comprehensive screening available. Recommended for ages 45+ or those who want peace of mind with extensive cancer and cardiac screening.
Pro tip: If your employer provides a basic corporate APE, use it as your baseline and consider paying out-of-pocket for a few key add-ons based on your age and risk factors (e.g., HbA1c for ₱400-₱800, thyroid for ₱800-₱1,500). This approach gives you comprehensive screening at a fraction of the cost of upgrading to an executive package.
Use ClinicFinderPH to find diagnostic centers and hospitals near you that offer APE packages, compare prices, and book your annual health screening.