Gujarat: Cancer Patients in Ahmedabad Reap Benefits from Ayushman Bharat Yojana

Ahmedabad, Feb 4 (NationPress) The life of Anil Kumar Sharma, who resides in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, faced a major setback when he was diagnosed with throat cancer 18 months ago. Thanks to the Ayushman Bharat Yojana, he now experiences about 50 percent relief from his illness.

Anil Kumar Sharma expressed, “Initially, my morale was low upon learning about my condition, but with the Ayushman Yojana, I received timely treatment. The provision of free treatment and necessary medications under the scheme has alleviated the financial strain that accompanies such a diagnosis. This scheme has bestowed me with renewed hope.”

Alka Sharma, Anil's sister, shared with IANS, “We had previously sought treatment at private hospitals, where the costs were exorbitant and there was no significant relief. Despite spending around Rs 3 lakh, we didn't receive any concessions.”

“After that, we applied for the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Yojana card and received immediate financial assistance. Obtaining the Ayushman card was hassle-free, and it was activated promptly. This card became crucial for treatment, allowing us to commence my brother's chemotherapy from there. Now, he has completed his fourth chemotherapy session and is feeling better.”

Radha Agarwal, another Ahmedabad resident, was diagnosed with cancer in June 2024. Initially detected in a private hospital, she later switched to a government hospital where she is receiving treatment under the PM Ayushman Yojana, benefitting from enhanced facilities.

Radha stated, “Upon my cancer diagnosis, I first visited a private hospital. The costs were steep, yet there was no notable improvement in my treatment. Subsequently, I secured a PM Ayushman Yojana card, and now I'm receiving care in a government facility. The amenities here are excellent, and I am noticing significant improvement.”

Nishchay Agarwal, Radha's son, remarked, “After learning about my mother's cancer, we initially sought care at a private hospital, but the costs were prohibitive. Then we were advised to acquire an Ayushman card for better treatment in a government hospital. Since obtaining the card, her treatment has been affordable and superior. My mother is feeling a lot of relief.”

Makhbooba Bano, aged 73, has been undergoing treatment for stomach cancer under the PM Ayushman Yojana for the past five months.

Makhbooba shared that her family sought immediate treatment upon her diagnosis, and with the Ayushman card, she is receiving quality care in a government hospital.

Makhbooba's daughter, Gulnaz, said, “My mother had a lump in her stomach. She has shown improvement after receiving treatment through the Ayushman Bharat scheme. We initially went to a private hospital, but the treatment was inadequate. We then opted for a government hospital, where better treatment is available at no cost.”

Siraj Mohammad Hanif Barfwala from Ahmedabad successfully battled blood cancer with the aid of the Ayushman card and is now fully recovered.

Siraj recounted that his condition was critical upon being diagnosed with blood cancer, but after commencing treatment under the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Yojana, the financial burden eased, and he is on the path to recovery.

Siraj stated, “We were extremely anxious following the blood cancer diagnosis, but the Ayushman card provided us with renewed hope. Under this scheme, I received not only superior treatment at the government hospital but also a significant reduction in costs. My treatment was free, and I received constant support from the medical team.”

The Ayushman Bharat Yojana, introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 23, 2018, has become a lifeline for numerous families across India, facilitating access to free treatment for severe health conditions in both private and government facilities.

By alleviating the financial burden of healthcare, this initiative ensures that even the most impoverished citizens can obtain life-saving medical assistance.