Odisha Joins AB PM-JAY Health Scheme
The National Health Authority (NHA) of India has recently signed a Memorandum of About (MoU) with the State Health Agency of Odisha. This agreement marks milestone as Odisha becomes the 34th state to implement the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY). The scheme aims to provide comprehensive health coverage to a large portion of the state’s population, enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality.
Overview of AB PM-JAY
AB PM-JAY is the world’s largest health coverage scheme. It aims to provide health insurance of ₹5 lakh per family per annum. Women members are entitled to an additional ₹5 lakh coverage. The scheme is fully digitized and aims to cover approximately 45% of India’s population.
Convergence with Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana
In Odisha, AB PM-JAY will be implemented in conjunction with the existing Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana (GJAY). This convergence will benefit approximately 1.03 crore families, with 67.8 lakh families receiving support from the Union Government. This integration aims to streamline healthcare services and improve health outcomes in the state.
Impact on Healthcare Accessibility
The implementation of AB PM-JAY will enhance healthcare accessibility in Odisha. Previously, patients had access to around 900 empaneled hospitals. Now, they can avail cashless treatment in over 29,000 government and private hospitals. This expansion allows patients to receive quality healthcare without financial burden.
Historical Significance of the MoU
The signing of the MoU is considered a historic event for Odisha. It was presided over by key officials, including Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda, the Union Minister of Health. The event brought into light the government’s commitment to improving healthcare services in the state and addressing health disparities among various populations.
Notable Achievements of AB PM-JAY
Since its inception, AB PM-JAY has recorded 8.19 crore hospital admissions. Approximately ₹1.13 lakh crore has been spent on healthcare for marginalized communities. The scheme has also improved access to healthcare in remote areas, including Naxal-affected districts, showing a notable increase in hospital admissions.
- AB PM-JAY covers nearly 2,000 medical procedures across 27 specialties.
- The scheme aims to benefit around 4.5 crore people in Odisha.
- Hospital admissions in Madhya Pradesh increased by 30 times due to AB PM-JAY.
- Ayushman Vay Vandana Card was launched for people aged 70 and above.
- AB PM-JAY has improved cancer patient access by 33% according to a Lancet study.
Future Prospects for Odisha’s Healthcare
The MoU is expected to transform the health status of 86% of Odisha’s population. Government officials have expressed optimism about the integration of digital healthcare services across all districts. This initiative aligns with the broader goals of ‘Viksit Bharat’ and ‘Utkarsh Odisha’, aiming for progressive development in the healthcare sector. The collaborative effort will particularly benefit tribal, underprivileged, and migrant populations, addressing healthcare inequalities effectively.
Month: Current Affairs - January, 2025
Category: Government Schemes Current Affairs