Ayushman Bharat: Transforming Healthcare in India

Ayushman Bharat, also known as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), is a flagship initiative by the Government of India aimed at providing accessible and affordable healthcare to millions of its citizens. Launched on September 23, 2018, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this scheme is the world’s largest health assurance initiative.

Key Components of Ayushman Bharat

1. Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs): The first component focuses on establishing 1.5 lakh HWCs by transforming existing Sub Centres and Primary Health Centres. These centers aim to provide comprehensive primary healthcare, including maternal and child health services, non-communicable disease management, and free essential drugs and diagnostic services.
2. Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY): The second component, PM-JAY, provides health coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. This scheme targets over 10.74 crore poor and vulnerable families, covering approximately 50 crore beneficiaries.

Benefits of Ayushman Bharat

• Cashless and Paperless: The scheme ensures cashless and paperless transactions at both public and private empaneled hospitals.
• Comprehensive Coverage: It covers all expenses incurred on medical examination, treatment, consultation, pre-hospitalization, non-intensive and intensive care, diagnostic and laboratory investigations, medical implants, accommodation, food services, and post-hospitalization follow-up care.
• No Cap on Family Size or Age: There is no cap on family size or the age of members, and pre-existing diseases are covered from day one.
• Expansion for Senior Citizens: Recently, the scheme was expanded to include senior citizens aged 70 and above, providing an additional ₹5 lakh cover annually.

Enrollment Process

To enroll in Ayushman Bharat, eligible beneficiaries can apply online through the official Ayushman Bharat website or mobile app. The process involves registering with Aadhaar details, verifying the information, and receiving the Ayushman card.

Impact and Reach

Since its inception, Ayushman Bharat has made significant strides in improving healthcare access for millions of Indians. It has provided health coverage to over 55 crore beneficiaries, ensuring that even the poorest and most vulnerable sections of society have access to quality medical care.

Conclusion

Ayushman Bharat is a monumental step towards achieving Universal Health Coverage in India. By addressing both preventive and curative aspects of healthcare, it aims to create a healthier and more prosperous nation. As the scheme continues to evolve, it holds the promise of transforming the healthcare landscape in India, leaving no one behind.