Ayushman Card Odisha: A New Milestone in Healthcare
Odisha has officially become the 34th state to implement the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), marking a significant milestone in the state’s healthcare journey. This initiative aims to provide cashless healthcare services to millions of residents by integrating with Odisha’s existing Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY). The National Health Authority (NHA) and State Health Agency, Odisha, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to onboard Odisha under this flagship healthcare scheme.
Ayushman Card Odisha Key Features
- Coverage of ₹5 lakh per family per annum, with an additional ₹5 lakh for women members.
- The scheme will benefit 1.03 crore families in Odisha.
- Convergence with Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY) for seamless healthcare access.
- Access to over 29,000 empaneled hospitals nationwide.
- Nearly 2,000 medical procedures covered, including major surgeries like bypass and knee replacements.
The Significance of the MoU
The agreement was signed at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, between Smt. LS Changsan, Additional Secretary, MoHFW & CEO of NHA, and Smt. Aswathy S, Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Odisha Health Department. The signing was presided over by Shri JP Nadda, Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare, and attended by Odisha Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi, alongside several key dignitaries.
Statements from Leaders
Shri JP Nadda highlighted that AB PM-JAY is the world’s largest and fastest-implemented health scheme, covering nearly 45% of India’s population. He noted that over ₹1.13 lakh crore has been spent on 8.19 crore hospital admissions under the scheme since its inception.
Shri Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized that Odisha’s residents, who were previously receiving treatment in 900 empaneled hospitals, will now have access to cashless treatment in over 29,000 hospitals. He reiterated that this initiative will transform the health status of 86% of Odisha’s population.
Important Link
| Beneficiary Login | Click Here |
| Management Portal Login | Click Here |
| Official Portal | Click Here |
Impact of AB PM-JAY in Odisha
- Enhanced Accessibility: Hospital admissions have increased, particularly in remote areas, making quality healthcare more accessible.
- Better Financial Protection: Reduction in out-of-pocket expenses for medical treatments.
- Boost in Healthcare Infrastructure: The scheme is expected to improve healthcare services in Odisha, bridging the gap between urban and rural healthcare access.
- Special Focus on Women and Marginalized Groups: Women will receive an additional ₹5 lakh coverage, ensuring better maternal and specialized healthcare services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY?
It is a national health insurance scheme that provides free healthcare access to economically disadvantaged sections of society.
2. How does Odisha benefit from this scheme?
The scheme integrates with GJAY, ensuring comprehensive healthcare coverage for 1.03 crore families in Odisha.
3. What is the eligibility for the scheme in Odisha?
Families identified under the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 and beneficiaries of existing health schemes like BSKY and GJAY are covered.
4. What are the key diseases and treatments covered?
The scheme covers nearly 2,000 procedures across 27 specialties, including cardiac surgeries, cancer treatments, and orthopedic surgeries.
5. How can beneficiaries avail of treatment?
Beneficiaries can visit any empaneled hospital, present their Ayushman Card, and receive cashless treatment.
6. How to check eligibility and apply for the Ayushman Card in Odisha?
Residents can check their eligibility by visiting the Ayushman Bharat portal or contacting local health officials for enrollment assistance.
7. Is this scheme applicable outside Odisha?
Yes, beneficiaries can avail treatment in any empaneled hospital across India.
8. Are pre-existing diseases covered under the scheme?
Yes, all pre-existing medical conditions are covered from day one of enrollment.
9. What should I do if I face issues accessing healthcare under the scheme?
Beneficiaries can contact the AB PM-JAY helpline or visit the hospital help desk for grievance redressal.
10. Is there any premium or registration fee?
No, the scheme is entirely free for eligible beneficiaries.
Conclusion
The implementation of Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY in Odisha is a landmark achievement in the state’s healthcare sector. With enhanced healthcare accessibility, financial protection, and technological integration, the scheme is set to improve the lives of millions of people. This initiative not only strengthens the public health infrastructure but also ensures that quality healthcare reaches every corner of the state, truly making it a historic moment for Odisha.