Ayushman Bharat Scheme Progress Update

The Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) has seen advancements as of late November 2024. Approximately 14 lakh Ayushman Vay Vandana cards have been issued to senior citizens aged 70 and above. This initiative aims to enhance healthcare access for vulnerable populations in India, particularly the elderly. The scheme currently serves around 4.5 crore families, ensuring that many beneficiaries receive essential medical services.

Grievance Redressal Mechanism

AB-PMJAY incorporates a robust three-tier grievance redressal system. This system operates at district, state, and national levels. Beneficiaries can file grievances through various channels, including online portals and call centres. Remarkably, 98% of the 5,565 grievances received have been resolved, showcasing the scheme’s commitment to addressing beneficiary concerns.

Expanding Healthcare Access

The scheme offers cashless healthcare for 1,961 procedures across 27 specialities. This includes critical services such as dialysis and joint replacements. States have the flexibility to customise health packages to meet local needs, ensuring that healthcare solutions are tailored to specific community requirements.

Call for State Participation

The Central Government is urging non-participating states like Odisha, West Bengal, and Delhi to join the AB-PMJAY initiative. The focus is on inclusivity to enhance healthcare access across all regions. With the Model Code of Conduct recently lifted, senior citizen enrollments have resumed, allowing more individuals to benefit from the scheme.

Addressing Violence Against Healthcare Workers

In response to rising incidents of violence against healthcare professionals, the Government has stated that existing state laws are adequate to address these issues. The Minister of State for Health emphasised the responsibility of states to create a safe working environment. Additionally, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has recommended swift filing of FIRs in cases of violence against healthcare workers, promoting measures to enhance workplace security.

Progress in Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination

The National Sickle Cell Anaemia Elimination Mission (NSCAEM) has made strides since its launch in July 2023. Over 4.75 crore individuals have been screened, with 0.38% identified as having sickle cell anaemia. The initiative also supports patients through counselling, nutritional supplements, and crisis management. Hydroxyurea has been added to the National Health Mission’s Essential Drugs list, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for patients.

State and Tribal Contributions

Awareness campaigns and mobile medical units are being deployed to reach remote tribal areas. These efforts aim to ensure that vulnerable populations receive timely care and referrals. States are actively participating in implementing the mission’s objectives to combat sickle cell anaemia effectively.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically examine the impact of the Ayushman Bharat scheme on healthcare accessibility in India.
2. Discuss the significance of grievance redressal mechanisms in public health schemes.
3. Explain the role of state governments in ensuring the safety of healthcare workers.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the challenges in implementing national health missions in tribal areas.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically examine the impact of the Ayushman Bharat scheme on healthcare accessibility in India.

1. Ayushman Bharat has issued 14 lakh cards to senior citizens, enhancing access for vulnerable groups.
2. Approximately 4.5 crore families benefit from cashless healthcare for 1,961 procedures across 27 specialties.
3. States can customize health packages, ensuring local healthcare needs are met effectively.
4. The scheme has a robust grievance redressal mechanism, resolving 98% of complaints, indicating responsiveness.
5. Inclusivity efforts are ongoing, urging non-participating states to join for broader access.

2. Discuss the significance of grievance redressal mechanisms in public health schemes.

1. Grievance redressal mechanisms ensure beneficiaries can voice concerns effectively, promoting transparency.
2. They enhance trust in public health schemes by demonstrating accountability and responsiveness.
3. The three-tier system allows for localized handling of issues, improving resolution efficiency.
4. High resolution rates (98% in AB-PMJAY) reflect the effectiveness of the mechanism in addressing complaints.
5. Such systems can inform policy improvements based on feedback from beneficiaries.

3. Explain the role of state governments in ensuring the safety of healthcare workers.

1. State governments are responsible for enforcing existing laws to protect healthcare professionals from violence.
2. They must create a safe working environment and promote workplace security measures.
3. Swift filing of FIRs in cases of violence is recommended to ensure timely justice.
4. States can implement awareness programs to educate the public about the importance of protecting healthcare workers.
5. Local governments can collaborate with health ministries to develop specific policies tailored to their regions.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the challenges in implementing national health missions in tribal areas.

1. Geographical barriers often hinder access to healthcare services in remote tribal regions.
2. Lack of infrastructure, such as roads and facilities, complicates the delivery of health services.
3. Low awareness and education levels about health schemes can lead to underutilization of available services.
4. Cultural beliefs and practices may conflict with modern healthcare approaches, causing resistance to interventions.
5. Resource constraints, including insufficient healthcare personnel and funding, impede effective implementation.