SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Health Minister Sakina Itoo has assured that the administration is actively examining the payment disputes with private hospitals under the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) SEHAT scheme and will work towards an early resolution to prevent any disruption of services for beneficiaries.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that private hospitals and dialysis centres across Jammu and Kashmir had threatened to withdraw from the scheme from July 1, citing significant delays in the reimbursement of claims and outstanding payments. Several empanelled facilities have reportedly expressed severe financial strain due to the non-release of dues, raising concerns about the continuity of critical healthcare services.
The minister’s assurance came during her participation in the inauguration of the SKIMS Medical Camp and Blood Centre at Alamgari Bazar, Zadibal. She acknowledged the issues raised by the private healthcare providers regarding payments under the Ayushman Bharat-SEHAT initiative.
Minister Itoo stated that the government was thoroughly reviewing the matter and expressed confidence that the concerns would be addressed promptly. She emphasized the importance of the Ayushman Bharat-SEHAT scheme as a vital healthcare intervention that has significantly benefited economically weaker sections of society across Jammu and Kashmir. The scheme provides access to essential surgeries, specialized treatments, and hospitalizations without imposing a substantial financial burden on families.
The Health Minister further noted that the administration is aware of the current challenges and is diligently working towards a solution. She reiterated the scheme’s crucial role in supporting poor and vulnerable patients throughout the Union Territory, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring its continued efficacy and accessibility.
The Ayushman Bharat-SEHAT scheme, a collaboration between the central government’s Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana and the Jammu and Kashmir government’s Social, Equity, and Health Assurance program, aims to provide a comprehensive healthcare package to all residents of the Union Territory. The scheme covers up to INR 5 lakh per family annually for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. Delays in payments from the government to private healthcare providers have been a recurring issue in various states, impacting the operational capacity of these facilities and potentially affecting patient care.
The government’s response indicates an understanding of the financial pressures faced by private hospitals and a commitment to resolving the payment backlog. Stakeholders are awaiting further details on the proposed resolution mechanisms and timelines. The successful resolution of these payment issues is crucial for maintaining the integrity and reach of the Ayushman Bharat-SEHAT scheme, ensuring that eligible beneficiaries continue to receive the healthcare services they are entitled to without interruption.
Previous reports had indicated that a substantial amount of funds was pending with the government, leading to liquidity problems for many private hospitals. These hospitals have argued that continued participation in the scheme without timely payments is unsustainable, prompting the ultimatum for withdrawal.
The Health Department is expected to engage in further discussions with representatives of private hospitals and relevant financial institutions to formulate a sustainable payment plan. The minister’s proactive stance is seen as a positive step towards safeguarding the interests of both healthcare providers and the beneficiaries of this flagship healthcare program.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
