Is Ayushman Bharat a Beacon of Hope for Dhamtari Residents?

Dhamtari, Sep 5 (NationPress) In an era where many low-income and middle-class families find it challenging to access quality healthcare in private facilities, the Ayushman Bharat Yojana has emerged as a beacon of hope for numerous residents in Dhamtari district, Chhattisgarh. This initiative, launched by the Central government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is providing a crucial lifeline to economically disadvantaged groups.

Through the Ayushman Bharat scheme, qualified individuals receive an Ayushman card, enabling them to access complimentary medical treatment of up to Rs 5 lakh each year at approved private and government hospitals. For many families who have previously faced overwhelming medical expenses, this initiative is a true blessing.

Residents of Dhamtari are witnessing the profound effects of the scheme first-hand. Beneficiaries recounted their experiences to IANS, detailing how the Ayushman card has granted them access to essential healthcare services without the anxiety of financial strain. Many remembered the days when merely contemplating hospitalization induced stress—not only due to health issues but also because of the exorbitant medical bills they would incur.

“Previously, receiving treatment at a private hospital was beyond our imagination,” shared one beneficiary.

“Even minor health issues would deplete all our savings. Some individuals even lost their lives due to an inability to access timely treatment. But now, with the Ayushman card, we are receiving treatment valued at up to Rs 5 lakh—entirely free of charge.”

Beneficiaries expressed their gratitude towards Prime Minister Modi and Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, stating that the scheme has liberated them from the constant fear of health crises.

One Ayushman cardholder, Rajendra Netam, expressed his satisfaction: “I am very pleased. This scheme is incredible. It has significantly benefited me.”

Similarly, Hemnath Devangan stated, “I come from a very impoverished family. When I fell ill suddenly, I was unable to afford treatment. Thanks to this card, I’ve already received treatment three times. I am extremely thankful to the government.”

Pushpendra Devangan added, “It’s a fantastic scheme for people like us. I sincerely thank PM Modi for launching such an initiative.”

Initiated on September 23, 2018 in Ranchi, the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) stands as the world’s largest health assurance program. Its goal is to provide health coverage of Rs 5 lakh per family per year for secondary and tertiary hospitalization to over 10.74 crore underprivileged families—approximately 50 crore individuals.

The scheme was developed based on the recommendations of the National Health Policy 2017 and is aligned with the vision of achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). It also complements the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with a fundamental principle of “leaving no one behind.”

Ayushman Bharat consists of two interconnected components: Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs), which provide comprehensive primary care services, and the PM-JAY, which caters to more serious health requirements.

PM-JAY is entirely funded by the government, with costs shared between the Central and respective state governments. Eligible beneficiaries are identified based on deprivation and occupational criteria as per the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011.