The Central Government’s flagship healthcare insurance initiative for senior citizens, Ayushman Bharat, is set to be officially launched in Kerala this month. Over 4 lakh residents in the state have already registered for the scheme, marking an early indication of the widespread interest in the program.
Key Details of the Scheme
The Ayushman Bharat scheme, under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) model, aims to provide health insurance to senior citizens, ensuring financial protection for secondary and tertiary care hospitalizations. With the launch in Kerala, the scheme aims to extend healthcare coverage to a large number of elderly citizens, offering them easier access to necessary medical treatments.
The scheme’s rollout faced delays primarily due to uncertainties regarding funding allocations from the Central Government. However, official sources have confirmed that the scheme will proceed, with a premium of Rs 1,552 calculated per beneficiary. Of this amount, 60 percent will be covered by the central government, further reducing the financial burden on the elderly.
Participation of Local Hospitals
In an effort to streamline the process, hospitals that are already empanelled under the state’s Karunya health insurance scheme will also participate in the Ayushman Bharat initiative. This collaboration aims to ensure that senior citizens have access to a broader range of healthcare facilities without disruptions.
Clarifications on Financial Concerns
Amid discussions about Kerala potentially withdrawing from the scheme due to financial constraints, authorities have clarified that these reports are inaccurate. Kerala, unlike other states with existing state-level insurance schemes, is in the later stages of implementing Ayushman Bharat. States like Tamil Nadu, which have similar programs in place, are still at an earlier stage of the rollout.
Largest Healthcare Scheme in the World
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) is the world’s largest health insurance scheme, covering over 55 crore people across India. By launching the scheme in Kerala, the central government aims to further extend the reach of this revolutionary healthcare initiative, providing comprehensive financial protection for vulnerable populations, particularly senior citizens.
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A Step Towards Better Healthcare for Senior Citizens
The Kerala government’s adoption of Ayushman Bharat marks a significant step toward improving healthcare access and affordability for the elderly in the state. As the implementation progresses, it is expected to bring relief to thousands of senior citizens by providing them with much-needed healthcare support.
As the scheme takes effect, it promises to alleviate financial pressures on elderly patients and their families, enabling better access to quality healthcare services across the state.
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