Update for CGHS Cardholders: The Modi government recently extended the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) benefits to the senior citizens aged 70 and above. The government also offered the flagship scheme as an additional option to beneficiaries of the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) and the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS).
Can CGHS cardholders apply for Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY benefits?
Yes, CGHS cardholders are eligible to apply for Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY benefits. However, rules make it clear that those who benefit from any other government health scheme cannot be covered under AB PM-JAY.
The recent announcement on PM-JAY specified that senior citizens who are currently benefiting from other public health insurance schemes, such as CGHS and ECHS, will have to choose between their existing benefits or the new AB PM-JAY. However, seniors with private health insurance or those under the Employees’ State Insurance Scheme (ESIS) will be eligible for the AB PM-JAY benefits.
No reversal allowed: Switching from CGHS to AB PM-JAY is a one-time decision for retired employees over 70
Retired government employees above the age of 70 who opt for the AB PM-JAY scheme and surrender their existing CGHS card or government health insurance will not be allowed to switch back. This decision is a one-time, irreversible option.
Eligibility and coverage under Ayushman Bharat PMJAY for senior citizens
All senior citizens aged 70 or above, regardless of their economic status, are eligible for free medical treatment up to Rs 5 lakh under the Ayushman Bharat PMJAY scheme. This initiative aims to provide universal health coverage to around 6 crore senior citizens from approximately 4.5 crore families in India. The only eligibility criterion is age, as recorded in the individual’s Aadhaar card, making it a straightforward process for senior citizens to benefit from this scheme.
Aadhaar mandatory for enrolment
Aadhaar-based e-KYC is mandatory for enrolment and issuance of Ayushman cards to eligible senior citizens. Aadhaar is the sole document required for the process, ensuring ease of access to the scheme. In cases where only the birth year is mentioned in the Aadhaar, January 1st of the year following the recorded birth year will be considered the individual’s date of birth for eligibility purposes.