The Ayushman Bharat scheme provides healthcare support to eligible people through the Ayushman Card. Those who meet the prescribed eligibility conditions can use the card to access free medical treatment, with expenses covered under the government healthcare scheme.
However, the Ayushman Card is not available to everyone. Specific eligibility conditions determine who can receive the benefits.
What Benefits Does the Ayushman Card Provide?
The Ayushman Card allows eligible beneficiaries to access medical treatment worth up to ₹5 lakh in a year. The treatment expenses are covered by the Government of India under the scheme.
The programme is intended to provide healthcare support to people from economically weaker sections as well as eligible families who may otherwise find it difficult to manage major medical expenses.
Who Is Eligible for an Ayushman Card?
Eligibility depends on the conditions prescribed under the scheme. People working in the unorganised sector and those belonging to economically weaker sections are among the groups covered by the programme.
PF members who do not receive benefits under the Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) can also be eligible. In addition, people aged 70 years and above are eligible for the scheme.
Therefore, individuals should check their eligibility before applying for an Ayushman Card.
How Can You Get an Ayushman Card?
Eligible individuals can apply for an Ayushman Card online through the official Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY website, pmjay.gov.in.
Those who need assistance with the process can also visit a nearby Common Service Centre (CSC). The government also conducts camps from time to time where eligible beneficiaries can have their Ayushman Cards issued.
Once eligible individuals complete the required process, they can use the card to access the healthcare benefits available under the scheme.