Ayushman Bharat Scheme Transforms Healthcare Access for Poor Families in Jharkhand's Palamu

The Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) is transforming healthcare access in the Palamu district, with residents reporting significant relief due to free and cashless treatment under the centre's flagship welfare programme.

The scheme provides eligible families with health insurance coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per year, enabling thousands in the district to access timely and quality medical care without financial burden. Beneficiaries say it has removed one of their biggest concerns — the high cost of treatment — which previously forced many to delay care or incur debt.

Shakir Alam, a relative of a patient, recounted how the scheme helped save his newborn after complications arose following delivery. Doctors diagnosed an infection and immediately began treatment, which he said would not have been possible without the financial support provided by the scheme. He added that nearly 70–80% of the medical expenses were covered, sparing him out-of-pocket expenses.

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Another beneficiary, Dhananjay Vishwakarma, said his son is currently undergoing treatment under the programme. He highlighted that earlier, arranging funds for healthcare was a major challenge, but the scheme has brought considerable relief to economically weaker families.

Ravi Kumar, another resident, noted that access to healthcare has improved significantly, with patients now receiving timely and better-quality treatment. He emphasised that many who once struggled without proper medical facilities are now benefiting from improved services.

Manish Tiwari, a hospital administrator and president of the Private Hospitals Association, said multiple patients are currently being treated under the scheme at his facility. He explained that the process is simple — patients need basic identification such as an Aadhaar card, a ration card, or an Ayushman card, after which eligibility is verified and treatment is provided free of cost.

The scheme covers a wide range of services, including general surgeries, neonatal and paediatric intensive care, emergency treatments, and management of critical illnesses. Beneficiaries say it has ended the need to take loans or sell assets for medical care, ensuring dignified treatment even in private hospitals.

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