Falling seriously ill is stressful enough, but when medical costs run into lakhs, it becomes a nightmare for poor families. To ensure that no one is denied treatment due to lack of money, the Government of Odisha has introduced a life-saving initiative called the Odisha State Treatment Fund (OSTF).
This scheme offers financial support to underprivileged patients diagnosed with major diseases, covering the cost of treatment directly at approved hospitals.
What is the Odisha State Treatment Fund (OSTF)?
Launched by the Department of Health & Family Welfare, the OSTF scheme is a welfare-based healthcare initiative aimed at assisting poor patients with critical illnesses like cancer, kidney failure, and heart disease.
Instead of giving money directly to patients, the fund is sent straight to the hospitals where they are being treated — ensuring transparency and timely medical care.
Who Manages the Fund?
The OSTF is handled by an independent body called the Odisha State Treatment Fund Society, registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. This autonomous setup allows for smooth implementation, free from red tape, and helps speed up financial approvals.
What Kinds of Diseases Are Covered?
Not all diseases are covered. The OSTF specifically focuses on life-threatening and high-cost illnesses such as:
- Cancer (chemotherapy, radiation, surgery)
- Cardiac diseases (bypass surgery, valve replacement)
- Kidney disorders (dialysis, transplant)
- Neurological conditions (brain surgeries, epilepsy treatments)
- Liver diseases
- Severe burn injuries
- Critical pediatric (childhood) disorders
The full list of covered diseases is available in Annexure D of the OSTF guidelines.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply under OSTF, a patient must:
- Be a permanent resident of Odisha
- Belong to a financially poor or economically vulnerable group
- Be diagnosed with a covered illness under the scheme
- Be undergoing treatment at a recognized hospital
Where Can Patients Get Treated?
Financial aid is available only if treatment is taken at:
- Government hospitals
- Empanelled private hospitals approved by the OSTF Society
Hospitals must be registered and recognized under the OSTF network to receive funds.
How is the Financial Aid Given?
Unlike cash benefit schemes, OSTF doesn’t transfer money to individuals. Instead, the funds are credited directly to the hospital’s account, covering the cost of:
- Diagnostic tests
- Medicines
- Surgery or procedures
- Hospital stay and post-treatment care
How to Apply for OSTF Assistance?
While the exact step-by-step application guide depends on hospital or district nodal officers, the general process is:
- Visit a government hospital or empanelled private hospital.
- Consult the treating doctor and get a diagnosis report for a covered illness.
- The hospital will help submit an application to the OSTF Society through the district health office.
- Once verified and approved, funds will be disbursed directly to the hospital.
Benefits at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Odisha State Treatment Fund (OSTF) |
| Department | Health & Family Welfare, Odisha |
| Managed By | Odisha State Treatment Fund Society |
| Financial Support | Yes, for critical illnesses |
| Payment Mode | Direct to hospital |
| Eligibility | Odisha residents from low-income backgrounds |
| Diseases Covered | Cancer, heart, kidney, neurological & more |
| Treatment Locations | Govt + empanelled private hospitals |
FAQs
1. What is the Odisha State Treatment Fund (OSTF) Scheme?
The OSTF is a government initiative by the Odisha Health & Family Welfare Department that offers free financial assistance to poor patients suffering from life-threatening diseases like cancer, heart problems, kidney failure, and more. The funds are paid directly to hospitals for treatment.
2. Can I receive cash directly under this scheme?
No. Patients do not receive money directly. The government sends the payment to the hospital where the patient is being treated. This ensures that the funds are used strictly for medical care.
3. Where can I get treatment under the OSTF scheme?
Treatment must be taken at:
- A government hospital, OR
- A private hospital empanelled under the OSTF network
Only these approved hospitals are eligible to receive payment through the scheme.
4. How long does it take to receive approval?
The approval time depends on the urgency of the case and the completeness of documents submitted. Emergency cases are often prioritized. On average, the process may take a few days to a couple of weeks.
5. What documents are needed to apply for OSTF?
Typical documents required include:
- Resident proof (Aadhaar, voter ID, etc.)
- Income certificate or BPL card
- Medical diagnosis and treatment report
- Doctor’s recommendation
- Estimate of treatment cost from the hospital
6. Can I use OSTF along with other schemes like BSKY or PMJAY?
In some cases, yes. If the treatment cost is high, OSTF can be used to supplement other health schemes. However, it depends on the hospital and approval authorities. Always clarify with the hospital’s nodal officer.
7. Where can I get more information or help with the application?
You can visit your nearest government hospital, District Headquarters Hospital, or contact the Odisha State Treatment Fund Society. For detailed info, refer to official health portals or contact your local health officer.
