Key Highlights
- Free Medical Insurance of up to Rs. 5 lakh per year for low-income families
- Eligibility is based on SECC data, focusing on families who are BPL
- Apply online or offline with basic documents and track status on the PMJAY website
Ayushman Bharat Yojana (ABY), also known as Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), is a significant health insurance program launched by the Indian government in 2018. This scheme provides free medical insurance to low-income families, covering up to Rs. 5 lakh annually per family. Here’s what you need to know about its benefits, eligibility criteria, and application process.
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Ayushman Bharat Yojana: Benefits
Ayushman Bharat Yojana is a lifeline for low-income families in India. It offers cashless hospitalization coverage of up to Rs. 5 lakh per year for each family. This coverage includes both serious (secondary) and critical (tertiary) care. The program covers a wide range of treatments and surgeries, such as knee replacements, heart bypass surgeries, cancer treatments, and care for chronic conditions. It also includes pre and post-hospitalization expenses, ensuring a complete healthcare experience for beneficiaries.
Eligibility Criteria
Families qualify for Ayushman Bharat Yojana based on Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) data. This data categorizes families into different income brackets, focusing on those living below the poverty line (BPL) and those identified as deprived based on specific socio-economic indicators. In urban areas, specific occupational groups like street vendors, construction workers, domestic workers, and sanitation workers are also included. Note that eligibility criteria may vary slightly across different states in India.
Required Documents
Applying for Ayushman Bharat Yojana is simple and requires a few basic documents:
- ID Proof: Aadhaar card or another government-issued ID.
- Family Details: Ration card to verify family information and economic background.
- Income Proof (optional): Some states may require an income certificate.
- Proof of Address: Utility bills or other documents confirming your residence.
How To Apply For Ayushman Bharat Yojana
Follow these steps to apply for Ayushman Bharat Yojana:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
- Online Verification: Visit the Ayushman Bharat PMJAY website, click on “Am I Eligible,” and enter your mobile number, state, and captcha code to check your eligibility.
- Offline Verification: Go to the nearest Common Service Center (CSC) or an empaneled Ayushman Bharat hospital. Use your Aadhaar card or ration card details to verify eligibility with the help of trained personnel.
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
- Online Application: Visit the PMJAY website, look for the “Register” or “Apply” section, and enter your details. Upload scanned copies of all required documents and submit the application.
- Offline Application through CSCs: Visit a CSC, where the operator will help you complete the application form, verify your documents, and submit the application electronically.
- Offline Application at Ayushman Bharat Hospitals: Many empaneled hospitals have helpdesks to assist with the application process. Present your documents, and the hospital staff will help you enroll.
Step 3: Track Your Application Status
- Use the PMJAY website to track your application status by entering your mobile number and captcha code.
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Step 4: Collect Your Ayushman Bharat Card
- After successful verification and enrollment, you will receive an Ayushman Bharat Card (PMJAY card). Present this card at empaneled hospitals when seeking treatment.
Ayushman Bharat Yojana aims to provide comprehensive healthcare to millions of low-income families across India, reducing the financial burden of medical expenses.
