In a landmark move to enhance healthcare accessibility for India’s elderly population, the government has expanded the Ayushman Bharat PM JAY (AB-PMJAY) to include all citizens aged 70 years and above, regardless of their income status. This comprehensive guide explains everything seniors need to know about this life-changing healthcare scheme.
Key Highlights:
- ₹5 lakh annual health coverage per family
- No income criteria for seniors above 70
- 100% cashless treatment
- Coverage at 30,000+ hospitals nationwide
- Simple Aadhaar-based registration process
Who Can Apply for Ayushman Bharat PM JAY
The scheme is now available to:
- All Indian citizens aged 70 years and above
- No income restrictions apply
- Previous beneficiaries including poor and vulnerable families
- ASHA workers and other specific categories
How to Register for Ayushman Bharat Senior Citizen Scheme
Online Registration Process:
- Visit www.beneficiary.nha.gov.in
- Download the Ayushman App from Google Play Store
- Complete Aadhaar e-KYC verification
- Receive your digital Ayushman card
Family Member Registration:
- Family members can register eligible seniors
- Use the beneficiary login option
- Verify through mobile OTP
- Visit nearest empanelled hospital for assistance
Coverage and Benefits
Treatment Coverage:
- Secondary care hospitalization
- Tertiary care procedures
- 100% cashless treatment
- No pre-existing condition restrictions
- Additional ₹15 lakh coverage under Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi for treatments not covered under PM-JAY
Network Hospitals:
- 30,000+ empanelled hospitals nationwide
- Including 190 leading corporate hospitals
- Notable names:
- Centre For Sight (Delhi)
- Medanta-The Medicity (Gurugram)
- Metro Hospital and Heart Institute (Noida)
- Fortis Escorts Hospital (Jaipur)
- Yashoda Super Speciality Hospital (Ghaziabad)
How to Use the Benefits of Ayushman Bharat PM JAY
Steps to Avail Treatment:
- Locate an empanelled hospital
- Verify treatment availability for your condition
- Present your Ayushman card or PMJAY ID
- Receive cashless treatment
Grievance Resolution:
- National helpline: 14555
- Online complaints through Ayushman Bharat PM JAY website
- 6-hour resolution time for treatment denial cases
- Multiple channels: mail, letter, fax
Important Information for Existing Beneficiaries
Re-registration Process:
- Current beneficiaries must re-initiate Aadhaar e-KYC
- Use website or mobile app
- Update registration under senior citizen scheme
State-wise Implementation
Role of State Health Agencies (SHAs):
- Hospital empanelment management
- Quality assurance
- State-level scheme implementation
- Local support and assistance
FAQs
Q: Is there any income criterion for seniors above 70?
A: No, all citizens above 70 years are eligible regardless of income.
Q: How much coverage is provided?
A: ₹5 lakh per family per year, with additional coverage available under RAN.
Q: Is the scheme completely cashless?
A: Yes, all empanelled hospitals must provide cashless treatment.
Q: How can I find an empanelled hospital?
A: Visit www.dashboard.pmjay.gov.in for the complete list.
Conclusion
The expansion of Ayushman Bharat PM JAY to include all senior citizens above 70 marks a significant step toward universal healthcare coverage in India. With its comprehensive coverage, simple registration process, and extensive hospital network, the scheme provides vital support to India’s elderly population in accessing quality healthcare services.
