The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana has reached its 5-year milestone.
To date, around 10 crore people have benefited from this scheme, which provides free medical treatment up to Rs 5 lakh.
It has been especially helpful for those from low-income backgrounds. In light of its success, the government is planning some significant changes to the scheme.
Planned Changes and Improvements
The Union Health Ministry is pushing for further enhancements to the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
A committee led by Dr. Vinod Paul, a NITI Aayog member (Health), has been established to review the scheme.
This committee will soon deliver a report with recommendations to the Health Ministry, which will then use this input to design future modifications.
Expanding Coverage and Treatment
There are plans to include more hospitals in the scheme, especially those in smaller cities, to ensure quicker access to treatment.
Additionally, the current treatment coverage of Rs 5 lakh may be increased to between Rs 7 lakh and Rs 10 lakh.
A new system for paying hospital bills is also under consideration to simplify the payment process. The committee’s report will outline the best approach for this.
Focus on Elderly Care
One of the most anticipated changes is the potential inclusion of all individuals over the age of 70 in the scheme.
This would provide free treatment to the elderly, focusing on age rather than income. This adjustment aims to benefit elderly individuals from middle-class families as well.
The expected changes promise to broaden the scheme’s reach and improve its effectiveness in providing healthcare to more people.
