The Odisha government is set to introduce two major health insurance schemes—Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) and Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana—starting April 1. These schemes aim to provide free medical treatment to over 3.5 crore people across the state.
Key Decision by Chief Minister
The decision to implement these schemes was taken in a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Lok Seva Bhawan. To mark the launch, special programs will be organized in 1,438 primary health centers across the state. Additionally, a massive awareness campaign will be conducted to ensure people know about these benefits.
Agreement with National Health Authority
For the successful implementation of Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY, the Odisha government signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the National Health Authority in New Delhi on January 13. This agreement ensures that Odisha residents can access benefits under the central health scheme.
Who Will Benefit?
- Total beneficiaries: More than 3.52 crore people in Odisha.
- Families covered under both schemes: Over 1.03 crore families will receive health insurance.
- AB-PMJAY coverage: 67.80 lakh families will benefit.
- Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana coverage: 35.84 lakh families will be covered.
Special Benefits for Senior Citizens (Above 70 Years)
- Odisha has 23.12 lakh people above 70 years of age.
- Out of this, 17 lakh people are already covered under the two schemes.
- 6 lakh more seniors will now be included in AB-PMJAY.
How Much Medical Coverage Will Beneficiaries Receive?
- Male beneficiaries can avail of up to Rs 5 lakh in medical treatment per year.
- Female beneficiaries can avail of up to Rs 10 lakh per year.
- Families with a senior citizen (above 70 years) can receive up to Rs 15 lakh in treatment.
Cashless Treatment at 29,000+ Hospitals
Beneficiaries will not have to pay for their medical treatment at over 29,000 government and private empaneled hospitals across India. The treatment will be completely cashless, reducing the financial burden on families.
Co-Branded Health Cards for Beneficiaries
- Beneficiaries will receive a single co-branded health card for both AB-PMJAY and Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana.
- A separate card will be issued for those under the Pradhanmantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (a senior citizen scheme).
High-Level Officials Present at the Meeting
The meeting was attended by:
- Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling
- Chief Secretary Manoj Ahuja
- Development Commissioner Anu Garg
- Principal Secretary of Information & Public Relations Sanjay Kumar Singh
- Principal Secretary of IT Department Vishal Dev
- Health Department Secretary Ms. Aswathy S
- Other senior officials from the Health Department
This new initiative will significantly improve healthcare access for Odisha residents, especially low-income families and senior citizens. The cashless treatment at thousands of hospitals ensures financial security and better medical care for the people of Odisha.
