Ayushman Card Benefits: Unlock 5 Lakh Health Subsidy for Indian Families
In a country where access to quality healthcare is a growing concern, the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) brings a revolutionary change. Commonly known as the Ayushman Card, this government-backed health insurance scheme offers cashless treatment up to ₹5 lakh per family per year at empaneled public and private hospitals across India.
This initiative not only addresses the financial burden of medical expenses but also ensures universal health coverage. Let’s dive deep into the Ayushman Card benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, and how you can avail the ₹5 lakh health insurance subsidy under this landmark scheme.
What is the Ayushman Card?
The Ayushman Bharat Card is a digital health card issued under the AB-PMJAY scheme. It acts as a health insurance card, offering free medical treatment at over 25,000 empaneled hospitals across India. The card enables cashless and paperless hospitalization, easing the process for economically weaker sections to access healthcare services.
Top Ayushman Card Benefits You Should Know
1. ₹5 Lakh Health Insurance Coverage
The most attractive feature of the Ayushman Card is the ₹5 lakh annual coverage per family. This coverage is not limited to one individual but extends to all members of a registered family.
2. Cashless and Paperless Treatment
With the Ayushman Card, beneficiaries can avail cashless treatment at both public and private hospitals. All processes — from admission to discharge — are managed digitally, ensuring minimal paperwork and zero out-of-pocket expenses.
3. Pre- and Post-Hospitalization Expenses Covered
The Ayushman scheme covers diagnostic tests, medications, and follow-up consultations, reducing the burden of hidden costs. Pre-hospitalization costs for up to 3 days and post-hospitalization expenses for up to 15 days are included.
4. Wide Range of Medical Treatments
The scheme covers over 1,600 medical procedures, including surgeries, daycare treatments, and serious illnesses like cancer, heart disease, and kidney ailments.
5. Nationwide Portability
The Ayushman Card offers pan-India portability, which means beneficiaries can get treatment at any empaneled hospital across the country, regardless of their state of residence.
6. No Age or Family Size Restrictions
There are no limits on family size, age, or gender, making it inclusive and beneficial for extended families, elderly members, and newborns.
7. Inclusion of Pre-existing Diseases
The scheme covers all pre-existing diseases from day one, making it accessible even for people with chronic illnesses.
Who is Eligible for the Ayushman Bharat Yojana?
Eligibility for the Ayushman Card is primarily based on Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 data. Here’s a quick overview:
Rural Eligibility Criteria
- Households with no adult member aged 16-59
- Families residing in single-room dwellings with mud walls and thatched roofs.
- Manual scavenger families
- Landless households dependent on casual labor
Urban Eligibility Criteria
- Ragpickers, beggars
- Domestic workers, street vendors
- Sanitation workers, drivers, construction workers
- Plumbers, electricians, mechanics
You can check your eligibility online at the Ayushman Bharat official portal.
How to Apply for the Ayushman Card Online
Follow these steps to register for the Ayushman Bharat Card:
- Visit the official PMJAY portal: https://pmjay.gov.in
- Click on ‘Am I Eligible’ and enter your mobile number linked with Aadhaar.
- If you are eligible, go to the nearest Common Service Center (CSC) or hospital helpdesk with your documents.
- Provide your Aadhaar card, ration card, and other identity proofs.
- After verification, your Ayushman Card will be issued digitally.
Documents Required for Ayushman Card Registration
- Aadhaar Card
- Ration Card
- Income Certificate (if applicable)
- Mobile Number
- Passport-sized Photograph
List of Treatments Covered Under Ayushman Bharat
The scheme includes but is not limited to:
- Cardiac surgeries
- Oncology treatments (Chemotherapy, Radiotherapy)
- Orthopedic surgeries (Joint replacement)
- Neurosurgeries
- Dialysis
- Cataract operations
- Maternity and newborn care
These procedures are offered free of cost to the beneficiaries.
How to Find Ayushman Bharat Empaneled Hospitals Near You
To locate nearby hospitals:
- Visit: https://hospitals.pmjay.gov.in
- Select your State, District, and Hospital Type
- Browse the list of empaneled hospitals offering cashless treatment
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Conclusion: A Giant Leap Toward Universal Healthcare
The Ayushman Bharat Yojana is not just a scheme but a lifeline for millions of Indians who struggle to afford quality healthcare. With ₹5 lakh subsidy per family per year, cashless treatment, and nationwide coverage, the Ayushman Card is a step toward achieving affordable healthcare for all.
If you or someone you know falls under the eligibility criteria, apply for the Ayushman Card today and safeguard your family against the financial burden of medical emergencies.