Healthcare expenses can be overwhelming, especially for low-income families in India. To address this, the Government of India launched the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY).
This scheme, a part of the Ayushman Bharat initiative, is designed to provide financial protection and access to quality healthcare services for millions of Indians.
In this blog, we will explore the key aspects of AB PM-JAY, its benefits, and how you can avail of this scheme in 2024.
Overview of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY)
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Launch Date | September 23, 2018 |
| Target Population | Over 50 crore economically vulnerable Indians |
| Coverage Amount | Up to ₹5 lakh per family per year |
| Eligible Households | Based on Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 and other identified criteria |
| Network Hospitals | More than 26,000 empaneled hospitals across India |
| Cost Coverage | Secondary and tertiary healthcare services, including surgeries, hospitalization, and medication |
| Cashless Transactions | Cashless and paperless access to services |
What is Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY)
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) is a national health insurance scheme launched by the Government of India with the goal of providing free healthcare coverage to economically weaker sections of the society.
This scheme is part of the broader Ayushman Bharat initiative, which aims to achieve universal health coverage.
The scheme offers financial protection by covering the costs of medical treatments up to ₹5 lakh per family per year.
This coverage is available for secondary and tertiary care hospitalizations, which include surgeries, medical procedures, and treatments for serious illnesses.
Who is Eligible for AB PM-JAY?
Eligibility for the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) is primarily based on the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 data. The scheme targets:
- Rural families identified as deprived under the SECC database.
- Urban families belonging to specific occupational categories, such as street vendors, domestic workers, and construction workers.
- Other economically vulnerable groups as identified by the government.
If your family falls under any of these categories, you are likely eligible for this life-saving scheme.
How to Avail Benefits Under AB PM-JAY?
To avail of the benefits under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri – Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), follow these simple steps:
- Check Eligibility: Verify if your family is eligible by checking the official PM-JAY portal or visiting a Common Service Centre (CSC) near you.
- Get an Ayushman Card: Once verified, you will receive an Ayushman Card, which acts as a proof of eligibility.
- Visit an Empaneled Hospital: With your Ayushman Card, you can visit any of the empaneled hospitals across India.
- Receive Treatment: The hospital will provide cashless treatment, and the expenses will be covered under the scheme.
- Discharge and Follow-Up: After treatment, you will be discharged with no bill to pay. Follow-up treatments, if needed, are also covered under the scheme.
Key Benefits of AB PM-JAY
1. Comprehensive Coverage
- Covers up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for hospitalization, surgery, medication, and follow-up care.
2. Wide Network of Hospitals
- Access to more than 26,000 empaneled hospitals across India ensures that quality healthcare is available nearby, no matter where you live.
3. Cashless and Paperless
- The scheme is completely cashless and paperless, ensuring that beneficiaries do not need to worry about the financial burden or the hassle of paperwork.
4. Covers Secondary and Tertiary Care
- From routine procedures to critical surgeries, all types of secondary and tertiary care are covered.
5. Special Coverage for Vulnerable Groups
- Special provisions are made for vulnerable sections of society, including women, children, and senior citizens.
Recent Updates and Future of AB PM-JAY in 2024
In 2024, the government has continued to expand the reach of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana. More hospitals have been empaneled, and efforts are being made to include more beneficiaries under the scheme.
The government is also working on integrating the scheme with state health programs to ensure no one is left behind.
What’s New in 2024?
- Increased Hospital Network: The number of empaneled hospitals has grown, making healthcare more accessible.
- Enhanced Digital Services: Improvements in digital infrastructure have made it easier to check eligibility and avail of benefits.
- Focus on Preventive Healthcare: The scheme is now placing a greater emphasis on preventive care, encouraging regular health check-ups and screenings.
Conclusion
The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri – Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) is more than just a health insurance scheme—it’s a lifeline for millions of Indian families.
Whether you’re eligible or know someone who might be, understanding the benefits and how to access them can make a world of difference.
In 2024, the scheme continues to grow, offering hope and security to those who need it the most. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to safeguard your family’s health—check your eligibility today!
Here you can see the latest press release by the government regarding AB PM-JAY.