The Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) is an initiative of the Indian government aimed at providing comprehensive healthcare services to its employees, pensioners, and their dependents. Recently, significant changes have been made to the scheme, including revised package rates and the simplification of the referral process.
Revised CGHS Package Rates and Their Implications
The Health Ministry has recently announced a revision in the CGHS package rates aimed at covering the rising costs of health care services. The consultation fee for out-patient departments (OPD)/in-patient departments (IPD) has been increased to ₹350 from ₹150, while ICU charges have been revised to ₹5,400. These changes could lead to increased healthcare costs for beneficiaries.
It’s believed that while these recent changes aim to cover the increasing costs of healthcare services, they may affect the affordability for some beneficiaries. However, it’s also worth noting that increased rates will ensure there are enough funds to maintain quality and improve facilities in the long run.
On the upside, these changes are also intended to simplify the referral process under CGHS, benefiting those who find it hard to visit the wellness centre in person. This is being done by introducing a video call facility, which can reduce delays and inconvenience for beneficiaries.
About the Central Government Health Scheme(C)
Established in 1954, CGHS aims to provide comprehensive healthcare services to government employees and their families. The facilities offered through this scheme include:
1. Outpatient department (OPD) treatments that also involve the issuance of medicines.
2. Specialist consultations at polyclinics, government hospitals, and CGHS enrolled hospitals with a referral from CGHS OPD.
3. Inpatient treatment at government and enrolled hospitals
4. Reimbursement for expenses incurred for the purchase of hearing aids, artificial limbs, and other medical appliances after obtaining permission.
5. Maternity and child health services, family welfare, and medical consultation.
Currently, the scheme caters to approximately 42 lakh beneficiaries in 79 cities across India. The government is also planning to extend its services to more cities to enhance accessibility.
Government Initiatives Related to Healthcare
In addition to the CGHS, the Indian government has initiated several other health programs including the National Health Mission, Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY), PM National Dialysis Programme, Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK), and Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK).
These programs aim at complete health coverage for all citizens, ensuring affordable and accessible healthcare facilities to even the most marginalized sections of the society.
National Nutrition Mission
In sync with these initiatives, the government launched the National Nutrition Mission (also known as POSHAN Abhiyaan), a flagship program implemented by the Ministry of Women and Child Development. It targets the improvement in nutritional status of children from 0-6 years, adolescent girls, pregnant women, and lactating mothers over a period of three years.
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Last Modified: February 20, 2024