Ayushman Bharat, launched in 2018, is a landmark initiative by the Government of India aimed at achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). This program is designed to provide accessible and affordable healthcare to over 500 million Indians, particularly targeting the economically weaker sections of society. As India strives to enhance its healthcare system, understanding Ayushman Bharat becomes crucial for citizens and stakeholders alike.
What is Ayushman Bharat?
Ayushman Bharat represents a significant shift in India’s healthcare policy. Recommended by the National Health Policy of 2017, this initiative encompasses two main components: the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) and the establishment of Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs). The scheme aims to provide comprehensive healthcare services ranging from preventive to tertiary care.
Ayushman Bharat Insurance for senior citizens aged 70 and above
The Indian government has recently approved a significant enhancement to its healthcare system by extending universal health coverage to citizens aged 70 and above under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY). This initiative, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to improve geriatric care across the nation.
****Coverage Details
- Eligibility: All senior citizens aged 70 years and older will be eligible for health insurance, regardless of their income level.
- Insurance Benefits: Each eligible family will receive health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per year. This expansion is expected to benefit approximately 6 crore senior citizens and 4.5 crore families.
- New AB PM-JAY Cards: Eligible seniors will be issued a new, distinct card under the AB PM-JAY scheme to facilitate access to these benefits.
- Additional Coverage: For those seniors already enrolled in the AB PM-JAY scheme, there will be an additional top-up of coverage, increasing their insurance limit by up to ₹25 lakh per year.
- Options for Existing Policyholders: Seniors currently covered by other public health insurance schemes, such as the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) or the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), will have the option to retain their existing plans or switch to the AB PM-JAY scheme.
This initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing healthcare accessibility for India’s elderly population, ensuring that they receive the necessary medical attention without financial burden.
Ayushman Bharat has made significant strides since its inception. Recent reports indicate that over 39 lakh individuals have benefited from the scheme, saving approximately INR 12,000 crore in healthcare costs. Continuous efforts are being made to improve awareness and accessibility, particularly in rural areas.
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Key Components of Ayushman Bharat
Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY)
PM-JAY is the flagship component of Ayushman Bharat, offering a health cover of up to INR 5 lakhs per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. This cashless scheme allows beneficiaries to receive treatment in both public and empaneled private hospitals without any out-of-pocket expenses.
Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs)
The establishment of HWCs aims to deliver Comprehensive Primary Health Care (CPHC) by transforming existing healthcare facilities. These centres focus on maternal and child health, non-communicable diseases, and preventive care, thereby bringing healthcare services closer to the community.
Benefits of Ayushman Bharat
The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) is one of the world’s largest health insurance schemes, designed to provide comprehensive healthcare coverage to vulnerable families in India. Here are the key benefits of the Ayushman Bharat scheme:
****Comprehensive Health Coverage
- Insurance Limit: The scheme offers health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary hospitalization.
- Target Beneficiaries: It aims to benefit over 12 crore vulnerable families, selected based on deprivation and occupational criteria from the Socio-Economic Caste Census 2011.
****Financial Protection
- Reduced Financial Burden: By covering significant medical expenses, PMJAY alleviates the financial strain on families, ensuring they do not face catastrophic health expenditures.
- No Premiums: The scheme is fully funded by the government, meaning beneficiaries do not have to pay any premiums for the coverage.
****Wide Range of Services
- Inclusion of Pre-existing Conditions: The scheme covers pre-existing illnesses and provides access to a variety of healthcare services, including day care procedures.
- Network of Hospitals: Beneficiaries can avail services at a wide network of empaneled public and private hospitals across the country.
****Ease of Access
- Ayushman Card: Eligible families receive an Ayushman card, which simplifies the process of accessing healthcare services and facilitates cashless treatment.
- No Restrictions on Age or Gender: The scheme does not impose any age or gender restrictions, making it inclusive for all family members.
****Support for Rural and Urban Areas
- Focus on Vulnerable Populations: The scheme is particularly aimed at supporting economically disadvantaged groups in both rural and urban settings, ensuring equitable access to healthcare.
****Implementation and Support
- Government Initiative: The scheme is a government initiative, with costs shared between the Central and State Governments, ensuring sustainability and support for healthcare infrastructure.
These benefits collectively contribute to improving healthcare access and quality for millions of families in India, promoting overall public health and well-being.
ayushman bharat scheme eligibility
The eligibility criteria for the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) have been designed to ensure that vulnerable populations receive necessary healthcare coverage. Here are the key eligibility requirements:
****General Eligibility
- Age Requirement: All citizens aged 70 years and above are eligible for coverage under the scheme, regardless of their income level.
- Family Coverage: The health insurance is provided on a family basis, with coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per year for secondary and tertiary care services.
****Specific Criteria for Other Beneficiaries
- Socio-Economic Status: Families from economically weaker sections, particularly those identified in the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011, are eligible.
- Income Limit: Households without a member earning more than ₹2.5 lakh annually are generally eligible. However, this income limit does not apply to senior citizens aged 70 and above.
- Exclusions: Certain categories, such as government employees, income taxpayers, and those owning specific assets, may not qualify.
Step-by-Step Online Application Process
To apply for the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) online, follow these step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
- Go to the official PMJAY website: www.pmjay.gov.in.
Step 2: Check Eligibility
- Click on the “Am I Eligible?” option on the homepage.
- Enter your mobile number and the captcha code to check your eligibility.
Step 3: Register
- If eligible, return to the homepage and click on the “Apply Online” option.
- You may need to create an account or log in if you already have one.
Step 4: Fill Out the Application Form
- Complete the online application form with your personal details, including:
- Name
- Age
- Address
- Family details
Step 5: Upload Required Documents
Prepare and upload the necessary documents, which typically include:
- Aadhaar card
- Proof of domicile
- Income certificate
- Photograph
- Category certificate (if applicable)
Step 6: Review and Submit
- Review all the information you have entered to ensure accuracy.
- Submit the application form.
Step 7: Receive Confirmation
- After submission, you will receive a confirmation message or email regarding your application status.
- If approved, you will receive your Ayushman card, which can be downloaded or printed.
Step 8: Contact for Assistance
- If you encounter any issues during the application process, you can contact the PMJAY helpline at 14555 for assistance.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite its successes, Ayushman Bharat faces challenges, including low awareness levels among eligible populations and issues with the quality of care in some empaneled hospitals. Addressing these challenges is crucial for the scheme’s sustainability and effectiveness.
Conclusion
Ayushman Bharat stands as a beacon of hope for millions of Indians seeking quality healthcare. As the initiative evolves, it is essential for citizens to stay informed and engaged. By understanding the benefits and processes associated with Ayushman Bharat, individuals can better navigate the healthcare landscape and ensure they receive the support they need.
I am above 70 yrs.I got ABHA card no.Thereafter how to get Ecard or card printed I am not getting.Where we can get this card.I stay in Thane Maharashtra.
Which are the hospitals I can visit to avail this scheme.We need help centre from Govt.so that all can avail this scheme.
Merely announcing the scheme is not sufficient. GOVT has to come fwd & help Sr.citizens
You may connected ABHA ID to PM JAY in the link given in the above card.
I am a senior citizen aged 88 years and my wife 83 living in all alone on interest income. Although presently no major illness, excluding minor health care issues, how long can continue is unknown. No pension due to private sector employment in the past. AB-PMJAY scheme is a boon from PM Narendra Modiji.
KUDOS TO OUR PRIMEMINISTER.. REMARKABLE DECISION AND INDDED BOON FOR ALL SENIOR CITIZENS..COMPARED TO US AND OTHER DEVELOPED COUNTRIES WEHRE SENIORS ARE TAKEN CARE BY THE GOVTMENT..NOW INDIA TOO STANDS SHOULDER TO SHOULDER IN THIS REGARD. JAI HIND JAIN MODIJI..
I am a senior citizen aged 88 years and my wife 83 living in all alone on interest income. Although presently no major illness, excluding minor health care issues, how long can continue is unknown. No pension due to private sector employment in the past. AB-PMJAY scheme is a boon from PM Narendra Modiji
Why exclusion clause for Senior citizens age 70 and above
Why not send Necessary Ayushman Bharat Card to all existing Aadhar Card holder for 70 years and above the age. Make it as simple as possible
Target is to benefit 70 years of age and above and you expect them to run about to have card. Make it simple send individually to all Aadhar Card holders. Yes there may be few thousands wrong individuals but for them Don’t trouble few Crores Super Seniors please. Think 🤔
Am an Income tax payer aged about 78 years.Am I eligible to get Ayusman bharat card
I am a senior citizen aged 88 years and my wife 83 living in all alone on interest income. Although presently no major illness, excluding minor health care issues, how long can continue is unknown. No pension due to private sector employment in the past. AB-PMJAY scheme is a boon from PM Narendra Modiji.
Sr. Cit would require assistance to fill the Application
It’s difficult to get Income Certificate who will give me, no I can’t request
Iam a retired central government officer ( INDIAN RLYS ), aged 85 yrs, having UMID health card issued by Rlys. Am I eligible to get the benefit of this new government’s PM JAY ,health scheme. In Rlys, the extent rules, procedure are not at all favourable. On one or the other technical issues, our clains are being rejected for reimbursement. When we are in any out station, it is difficult to fulfill the conditions.
Kindly guide.
माझे नाव चंद्रकांत चव्हाण आहे, मी मूळचा महाराष्ट्र राज्यांचा आहे. गेले 17 वर्ष मी माझ्या परिवार सहीत कर्नाटक – हळीयाळ या तालुक्यात राहत आहे . मी सामाजिक कार्यकर्ता असून मला राहण्यासाठी स्वताचे घर 🏠🏡 नसून मी माझ्या परिवार सहीत गेले 17 वर्षे भाड्याच्या घरात राहत आहे.
माझी मान्यनिय प्रधानमंत्री मोदी यांना विनंती आहे,की
मला माझ्या पत्नीच्या नावे (वंदना चंद्रकांत चव्हाण) या नावे प्रधानमंत्री आवास योजनेंतर्गत घरकुल मिळावी ही विनंती आहे.
आपला भारतीय नागरिक
Chandrakant Kadappa Chavan
वरिष्ठ नागरिकों के लिए यह योजना वरदान साबित होगी। माननीय प्रधानमंत्री जी का हृदय से आभार। जय हिंद।
It should cover to all income tax payers n specific assets individuals also why not eligible there is no of tax payers retired people having small amount of insurance with private companies paying higher premiums as per age factor they will also get additional 5lacs coverage to meet the high value bills of hospital
Hope government will consider this I humbly request prime minister to consider the same
S R Saxena
It should cover to all income tax payers n specific assets individuals also why not eligible there is no of tax payers retired people having small amount of insurance with private companies paying higher premiums as per age factor they will also get additional 5lacs coverage to meet the high value bills of hospital
Hope government will consider this I humbly request prime minister to consider the same
I am 84 yrs and would like to take advantage of the PMJAY health insurance card
I tried to see nrol through online portal but not successful
I have already registered with ABHA and downloaded the card.
How to go about for PMJAY health insurance card.
Please guide me
Ramachandran g r
The senior citizens above 70 years are greatful for extending ayusman Bharat scheme universally to all irrespective of income,class,caste, community.
In order to make it operational at the earliest and taking into account advanced age of the beneficiaries, who are not tech savy the process of registration may be dispensed. The Name,address ,mobile number photograph of all aadhar card holders can be collected from UDAAI and deemed as registered and ayusman card sent by post. If any person is already registered under existing scheme that can be incorporated with higher limit for family with exclusive sublimity for senior citizens.
2. The Pharmaceutical and Health infrastructure needs to upgraded to cater increased number of patients to be served.
3. The health insurance companies can launch top-up/super top policies to the beneficiaries.
4. The diagnostic centres should launch health checkup facilities at a nominal cost to beneficiaries to assess their health status and recommend life style changes to avoid hospitalisation.
5. The hospitals and philanthropic organisations and corporates should help in augmenting geriatric care facilities under corporate social responsibility programme to provide much needed relief to elderly in the sunset phase of their life.
I suppose this is a very good initiative, however I sincerely feel that the Announcement should be done with accurate information and specifically when the process and system is completely ready. I am tech savvy person, yet I find it difficult to register my mother who is 74 for PMJAY yojna. More over, when the claim is made that every person over 70Years is eligible, then what is the point of having to check Am I Eligible? Also who decides Am I Eligible. There is no status or registration process to do the registration.
Informing that government is doing something for their citizen is important step, doing it so when they are really ready for everyone irrespective of their caste, position, so called eligibility, would be the best interest.