How Did a Bihar Man Transform His Life with Ayushman Bharat?

Vaishali, July 8 (NationPress) In a moving account highlighting the transformative effects of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), Manohar Das, who resides in Arniya Panchayat within the Jandaha block of Vaishali district in Bihar, recounted how this significant healthcare initiative rescued him during a critical health crisis.

"Several months ago, I experienced continuous bleeding from my mouth for a full 24 hours. Initially, my family took me to a local hospital. However, when my health did not improve, I was referred to Samay Hospital in Saguna More, Patna," Manohar shared with IANS.

“I received treatment there for four days. When they requested my Ayushman card, I presented it, and from that moment on, all my medical expenses—including immediate care, nourishment, and other amenities—were covered at no cost. Today, I am well and back home with my loved ones.”

In expressing his appreciation, Manohar stated, "I am grateful to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for launching a scheme that has become a lifeline for families like mine, who belong to the middle-class and economically weaker segments."

Initiated by the Government of India, the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY stands as the largest government-funded healthcare insurance program globally.

This initiative provides health coverage up to Rs 5 lakh per family annually for secondary and tertiary hospitalizations, aiming to assist nearly 55 crore beneficiaries across 12.37 crore families, focusing particularly on those from less affluent backgrounds.

Over the years, various States and Union Territories have integrated their health insurance programs with AB PM-JAY, thereby extending benefits to more than 18 crore families nationwide.

In March 2024, the scheme expanded to include 37 lakh families of ASHA workers, Anganwadi Workers, and Anganwadi Helpers. On October 29, 2024, another significant expansion brought all senior citizens aged 70 and above, irrespective of income, under the scheme's umbrella. This change is anticipated to benefit approximately 6 crore elderly individuals across the nation.

As of November 30, 2024, around 36 crore beneficiaries have been verified under AB PM-JAY, with over 8.39 crore hospital admissions authorized. The cumulative treatment costs covered to date exceed Rs 1.16 lakh crore, markedly reducing out-of-pocket expenses for countless families.

The Government has also introduced the Ayushman Vay Vandana scheme to provide health benefits to seniors and is enhancing services through the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, which has already issued over 77 crore Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHAs) for improved healthcare accessibility.