Ayushman Bharat Update: New Add-on Scheme– Diseases Covered & Eligibility For Ayushman Card

The Indian government has extended a significant healthcare benefit to the elderly population, ensuring that individuals aged 70 and above are now included in the Ayushman Bharat Scheme, also known as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY). As the world's largest publicly funded health programme, PMJAY offers up to Rs 5 lakh worth of free treatment for eligible beneficiaries. This expansion aims to provide a safety net for senior citizens, allowing them to access necessary healthcare services without worrying about financial constraints.

To access these benefits, eligible seniors must apply for and obtain an Ayushman Card. This article will guide you through the process of obtaining this card and highlight the benefits that come with it.

Key Benefits of the Ayushman Bharat Scheme for the Elderly
Senior citizens holding the Ayushman Card can receive cashless and paperless treatment for a wide range of ailments. The scheme extends its reach across more than 29,000 hospitals nationwide, covering both government and private institutions. With health coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh, elderly individuals can seek medical treatment without the stress of accumulating bills or relying on family members for financial support.

A Range of Diseases Covered Under the Scheme
The Ayushman Bharat Yojana covers various severe illnesses, including cancer, heart disease, kidney ailments, COVID-19, cataracts, dengue, chikungunya, malaria, and joint replacements. Initially, the scheme included 1,760 types of diseases. However, a subsequent review led to the removal of 196 conditions from the list, specifically for treatment at private hospitals. Notably, these conditions include cataracts, surgical deliveries, and malaria. Nevertheless, beneficiaries can still receive treatment for these ailments at government hospitals, ensuring that essential healthcare remains accessible to all.

Surgeries Covered for Senior Citizens
Senior citizens requiring surgical interventions can also benefit from the scheme. The Ayushman Yojana covers an extensive list of surgeries for the elderly, such as prostate cancer surgery, double valve replacement, coronary artery bypass, pulmonary valve replacement, knee and hip replacements, skull base surgery, tissue expanders, paediatric surgery, radiation oncology, neurosurgery, and angioplasty with stents. These surgeries are not limited to government hospitals; private hospitals listed under the scheme are also authorised to perform these procedures, providing seniors with a broader range of healthcare options.

Steps to Obtain an Ayushman Card
To benefit from the scheme, eligible individuals must first apply for an Ayushman Card. The process is straightforward and can be done by visiting the official PMJAY website at https://pmjay.gov.in/. On the homepage, select the 'Am I Eligible' option and follow the instructions to verify eligibility. Alternatively, individuals can check their eligibility by calling the toll-free number 14555.

Once eligibility is confirmed, the next step is to apply for the card at a Common Service Centre (CSC). Applicants will need to present identification documents, which may include an Aadhaar card, PAN card, driver's licence, voter ID, or any other government-issued identity card. After applying, individuals can track and download their Ayushman Card online, ensuring a seamless process from application to utilisation.

Important Considerations for Families
Following the decision to extend benefits to senior citizens, it's important to note that all individuals aged 70 and above are now eligible for the scheme, irrespective of their social or economic status. In cases where a family member is already covered under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, any elderly person aged 70 or above in the same family will receive separate coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh. This ensures that the elderly have their own financial safety net within the family's healthcare coverage.

This new initiative by the government is a transformative measure, aiming to provide accessible and affordable healthcare to senior citizens across India, ensuring that they receive the support they need during their later years. By offering comprehensive coverage and a hassle-free application process, the Ayushman Bharat scheme stands as a testament to the nation's commitment to its elderly population.