The Government of India has introduced a significant expansion to its Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), extending health insurance benefits to senior citizens aged 70 and above. According to a Press Information Bureau (PIB) release dated September 12, 2024, individuals in this age group will be eligible for health insurance coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh, regardless of their income status. This marks a key step in providing accessible healthcare to India’s elderly population.
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Who is Already Covered Under Ayushman Bharat?
Ayushman Bharat initially aimed at offering health coverage to economically vulnerable sections of the population. Families identified through the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) and various other welfare schemes are automatically covered under AB PM-JAY. The scheme covers over 10 crore families or approximately 50 crore individuals. Beneficiaries receive free medical treatments at empaneled hospitals across the country for secondary and tertiary care.
Key Features of the Scheme:
- Coverage of Rs 5 lakh per family per year
- Covers secondary and tertiary hospitalization
- Beneficiaries can avail of services in public and private empaneled hospitals
With this new announcement, the scheme has widened its scope to include all senior citizens aged 70 and above, irrespective of their economic background.
Other Health Insurance Options
In addition to Ayushman Bharat, senior citizens may explore various other government and private health insurance options. Some schemes already cater to the healthcare needs of the elderly, but they often have income restrictions or higher premium rates. The AB PM-JAY expansion provides an inclusive alternative by offering free coverage without any income threshold or financial burden on beneficiaries.
Who Will Benefit?
The inclusion of senior citizens over 70 under Ayushman Bharat is expected to provide a major relief for elderly individuals who may not have sufficient healthcare coverage or access to quality medical facilities. Those who were previously ineligible for AB PM-JAY or faced difficulties affording private health insurance can now benefit from this government initiative.
Key Beneficiaries:
- Senior citizens aged 70 and above, regardless of income level
- Elderly individuals with pre-existing health conditions
- Families with aging members who previously had limited or no access to health insurance
Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) Scheme Details
AB PM-JAY is one of the world’s largest health insurance programs, offering cashless and paperless access to medical services. It covers a wide range of medical treatments, from surgeries to hospitalization, including pre-existing conditions. Beneficiaries can access care at any of the more than 23,000 empaneled hospitals across India.
Coverage:
- Hospitalization costs: Includes diagnostics, surgery, medical treatment, and follow-up care.
- Pre- and post-hospitalization expenses: Covers treatment costs before and after the hospital stay.
- Daycare procedures: Includes treatments that do not require prolonged hospitalization.
How to Apply for Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana
Steps to Apply:
- Check Eligibility: Visit the official Ayushman Bharat website (https://pmjay.gov.in) to check your eligibility or visit a Common Service Centre (CSC).
- Get the Ayushman Card: Once your eligibility is confirmed, obtain the Ayushman Bharat Health Card by providing the necessary documents such as Aadhaar card, ration card, and proof of age.
- Choose Empaneled Hospitals: Select from the list of empaneled hospitals where the scheme benefits can be availed.
- Avail Cashless Treatment: Present your Ayushman card at the hospital to avail cashless treatment under the scheme.
With its simplified application process and extensive network of hospitals, Ayushman Bharat ensures that healthcare is accessible for all senior citizens, particularly those aged 70 and above, with this new coverage initiative.
