Aimed at providing health coverage for over 500 million vulnerable citizens, the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) launched in 2018 has emerged as one of the most transformative healthcare concepts in no uncertain terms for Jammu and Kashmir.
Given that it has matured for implementation for years, the sustainability of the scheme stands as evidence to the commitment of the concerned authorities to provide fair healthcare and the strength of the region’s healthcare infrastructure.
The Ayushman Bharat scheme so far has indeed been a lifeline for marginalized sections of society, providing cashless treatment up to Rs 5 Lakh per family per annum for secondary and tertiary care.
This has not only eased the financial burden on families but also promoted timely medical interventions and, thereby, saved countless lives. On the contrary, very recently, it has been alleged that the association of private hospitals and dialysis centres has raised genuine concerns about the sustainability of the scheme, asserting that its contract is bound to expire very likely in mid-March of this year.
Healthcare infrastructure being a very key support for the sustainability of the Ayushman Bharat scheme in Jammu and Kashmir, strengthening healthcare infrastructure is being carried on with effort in it.
Public and private hospitals empanelled by the authorities keep a wide network of healthcare providers available for beneficiaries. Along with this, the promotion of primary healthcare through the establishment of Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centers across the region brought primary healthcare right to the doorsteps of preventive and promotive health services.
Reducing the burden of tertiary care facilities, these centres act as a very important area of addressing the health concerns right from the grassroots level.
The scheme has made major strides in Jammu and Kashmir; there are still matters requiring routine attention to help strengthen the healthcare infrastructure. Good steps forward include the Ayushman Bharat scheme itself, but retention of the scheme in J&K would mark an important achievement towards ensuring equitable access to healthcare for all residents of this region.
By way of keeping this scheme running, thousands of families in Jammu and Kashmir will be able to access quality medical care without the burden of financial stress, leading to a healthier and more prosperous society.
