Ayushman Bharat is a major program launched by the Government of India, based on the recommendations of the National Health Policy 2017, to ensure everyone has access to healthcare. The aim is to achieve Universal Health Coverage and support the country’s goals for sustainable development focusing on making sure no one is left out. Ayushman Bharat Health Insurance aims to ensure that every individual has access to quality medical services without financial burden. This program has two main components:
1. Health and Wellness Centres (HWC)– HWC are are a key component of the Ayushman Bharat initiative. These centers offer essential healthcare services to rural and remote areas with an emphasis on prevention, overall well-being, and early treatment. In 2018 Government of India announced the creation of 1,50,000 Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) by transforming the existing Sub Centres and Primary Health Centres.
2. Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) – Other constituent of Ayushman Bharat Health Insurance is the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY). This scheme was launched on 23rd September 2018 in Ranchi, Jharkhand by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India. Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY is the world’s largest health insurance scheme, designed to provide a health coverage of ₹5 lakh per family annually for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. It aims to cover over 12 crore poor and vulnerable families representing the bottom 40% of India’s population.
Features of PM-JAY
- PM-JAY offers cashless access to healthcare services for beneficiaries directly at the hospital, at the time of treatment.
- PM-JAY aims to reduce the financial burden of medical expenses which pushes about 6 crore Indians into poverty every year.
- There is no cap on the family size, age or gender.
- This scheme covers up to 3 days of pre-hospitalization and 15 days post-hospitalization expenses such as diagnostics and medicines.
- All pre-existing conditions are included from the very first day.
- In this scheme Services include approx. 1,929 procedures covering all the costs related to treatment.
Ayushman Bharat Health Insurance Scheme is a ground-breaking program designed to offer affordable and quality healthcare to millions of Indians, especially those who are underprivileged. By focusing on both prevention and financial support, it plays a key role in improving health and reducing poverty across the country. This initiative brings India closer to a healthier future for everyone.
