In a significant boost to healthcare accessibility, Haryana has expanded the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) to cover more families under its universal healthcare umbrella. This move is set to ensure that millions of underprivileged citizens across the state receive affordable and quality medical care.
Key Highlights of the Expansion
- Increased Beneficiary Count:
The new phase of Ayushman Bharat adds over 10 lakh families to the existing list, bringing the total beneficiaries in Haryana to approximately 30 lakh households.
(National Health Authority) - Enhanced Coverage:
Each family is entitled to ₹5 lakh annual health insurance, covering treatments at empanelled private and government hospitals. - Cashless Treatments:
Beneficiaries can avail cashless treatments for over 1,500 medical conditions, including critical care, surgeries, and chronic disease management.
Strengthening Healthcare Infrastructure
- Empanelled Hospitals:
Haryana has increased its network of empanelled hospitals to 800, including top-tier private facilities in Gurugram, Faridabad, and Ambala. - Special Focus on Rural Areas:
Districts like Hisar, Rohtak, and Karnal are seeing new tie-ups with healthcare providers to ensure accessibility for rural populations. - Digital Health Cards:
Beneficiaries are issued Ayushman Cards, integrated with Aadhaar, for seamless verification and service access.
Economic and Social Impact
- Financial Relief for Families:
The scheme has saved beneficiary families in Haryana over ₹1,200 crore in out-of-pocket expenses since its launch. - Improved Health Outcomes:
The expansion ensures timely treatment for critical illnesses, significantly reducing mortality rates across the state.
Sustainability and Future Plans
- Telemedicine Integration:
Haryana plans to link Ayushman Bharat with telemedicine services to reach remote areas, ensuring consultations and follow-ups via digital platforms. - Healthcare Workforce Expansion:
Training programs for Ayushman Mitras—healthcare coordinators—are being intensified to handle the increased beneficiary load.
Challenges and Mitigation
- Awareness Drives:
The government has launched campaigns in local languages to educate families about their eligibility and benefits under the scheme. - Fraud Prevention Measures:
Real-time monitoring and stringent checks are in place to prevent misuse of benefits.
Ayushman Bharat: Transforming Lives in Haryana
The expansion of Ayushman Bharat in Haryana is a testament to the state’s commitment to inclusive healthcare. By broadening its reach, the scheme ensures that no family is left behind in the journey toward better health and well-being.
