Optum Philippines future-proofs its workforce with care, connection, growth

Written by: Kenneth M. del Rosario

Optum Philippines, a member of the UnitedHealth Group (UHG), has earned the prestigious recognition as one of “The Philippines’ Best Employers 2025” by the Philippine Daily Inquirer and Statista for the very first time. 

This signals the global capability center’s growing reputation as a top workplace in the healthcare and business process outsourcing sectors. More importantly, the accolade highlights the company’s efforts in promoting a nurturing, inclusive, and growth-oriented work environment.

“At Optum, we believe that our greatest asset is our people, and we are committed to creating an environment where every employee feels valued and supported,” said Rain Tan, the company’s Vice President for People. He expressed pride in the recognition, attributing it to the company’s focus on employee well-being and development.

A crucial role in the healthcare industry

As part of UHG, a leading health insurance and services company in the United States, Optum plays a significant role in providing a wide range of healthcare services. Since its inception in the country in 2011, the company has expanded to over 25,000 employees across Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao. These employees support various UHG lines of business, contributing to the company’s mission of enhancing access to quality healthcare worldwide.

“Optum is unique in its comprehensive approach to healthcare. We offer services that cover everything from prevention to treatment and payment, giving our employees the chance to grow across the entire healthcare spectrum,” Tan said. This broad range of services makes Optum a standout in the industry, allowing its employees to gain valuable experience and expertise in diverse areas of healthcare.

This holistic healthcare model not only benefits patients but also presents exceptional opportunities for talent development. As Tan said, “Our employees contribute directly to improving lives. Waking up every day and knowing we are part of this bigger community and doing meaningful, impactful work provides immense fulfillment.”

Employee satisfaction is a priority

At the core of Optum’s success is its commitment to its employees, embodied in its Employee Value Proposition (EVP)—“Caring, Connecting, Growing Together.” This EVP underscores the company’s dedication to promoting an environment where employees feel valued, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential.

Optum prioritizes its employees’ mental, physical, and overall well-being through various programs and initiatives. For example, the company offers competitive pay, life and medical insurance, retirement plans, and wellness leaves, along with flexible work options. Additionally, employees have access to mental health resources, including a 24/7 hotline and premium access to Calm, a popular meditation app.

One standout initiative is the company’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP), which provides resources not only for employees but also for their families. From well-being assessments to legal and financial counseling, the program ensures that employees receive the support they need, both at work and at home.

Building connections, growth

Optum also encourages connection and community-building through its Employee Resource Groups (ERGs). These groups, including the UCARE Volunteer Group, United Fun League, Women LEAD, Pride, and a Disability Inclusion Group, are employee-led communities that promote inclusion, offer support, and drive engagement.

In addition to connection, career growth is another key pillar at Optum. The company offers a robust talent development agenda that includes access to learning platforms such as LinkedIn Learning and Uptime, allowing employees to upskill and advance in their careers.

“Every day, when we come to the office, it feels like we have what we need to find our purpose and drive to do our best work. I am proud to be part of a team that cares for its people and provides a space for us to thrive and live our healthiest life,” said Marc Magadia, Optum’s site sourcing lead.

Icy Villanueva, a quality engineering manager part of the ITSS Quality and Consumer Experience team, echoes the sentiment. As a scholar of the company’s INSPHERO program, Villanueva is grateful to be part of a company that aligns with her growth objectives. 

“Optum has supported me through various trainings and certifications, such as ITIL V4 Foundation and Transformative Coaching for Professionals. The support from my manager and senior leaders [throughout the program] gave me the extra motivation to power through. It shows how supportive and invested Optum is in our growth,” he said.

A culture of inclusivity, recognition

One of the key drivers behind Optum’s recognition as a top employer is its inclusive culture. In a recent employee survey, 93.1% of respondents recommended Optum as a great place to work. 

Another noteworthy project is Optum Health Education Global (OHEG), which is Optum and UHG’s offers Filipino nurses—including Optum Nurses—free, self-paced continuing education courses that are internationally and locally accredited and can contribute towards their requirements to keep their licenses active.

The company’s focus on diversity extends beyond its internal culture. Through its CSR programs, Optum employees are encouraged to give back to the community. One such initiative is the United for Giving program, which doubles employee donations to eligible charitable organizations.

Future-proofing the workforce

As Optum Philippines continues to grow, the company is determined to maintain and enhance its efforts to increase employee engagement and satisfaction. One way the company plans to do this is by future-proofing its workforce through bespoke talent development programs and career paths that encourage upskilling such as the Tuition Reimbursement Program, INSPHERO, and Optum Health Education Global.

“We are already proud of the excellent talent we have,” said Tan. “Imagine Filipino talent leading multi-regional teams, with members in Puerto Rico and India. Moving forward, we will continue to empower our people through improved communication, transparency, and employee engagement initiatives.”

Optum’s recognition as one of “The Philippines’ Best Employers 2025” is proof of the company’s dedication to its employees and its mission of helping people live healthier lives. With a strong foundation in place, Optum is well-positioned to continue making a meaningful impact on both the healthcare system and the lives of its employees in the years to come.

ADVT. 

This article is brought to you by Optum Philippines through the  Perceptions,Inc agency.

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