The Indian government has recently expanded the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) to include health insurance coverage for all people aged 70 and above. This significant move aims to enhance healthcare access for the older people, who often face higher medical expenses as they age.
Eligibility and Coverage Details
People aged 70 years and above are eligible for the new coverage under AB PM-JAY. This includes those already covered under the scheme and those not previously included. The new coverage provides an additional top-up of up to ₹5 lakh per year, separate from the coverage provided to other family members under 70 years1.
How to Apply to Ayushman Bharat Scheme
Applying for the new health insurance coverage under AB PM-JAY is straightforward:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY official website.
- Verification: Have your Aadhaar card or ration card verified at a PMJAY kiosk.
- Submit Proofs: Provide family identification proofs.
- Obtain e-Card: Get your e-card printed with a unique AB-PMJAY ID.
Integration with Other Health Schemes
Older people already covered by schemes such as the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), or Ayushman Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) can choose to retain their current coverage or switch to AB PM-JAY. Those under private health insurance or the employees’ state insurance scheme can also avail themselves of benefits under AB PM-JAY1.
Benefits of Ayushman Bharat Scheme
AB PM-JAY covers a wide range of medical expenses, including:
- Medical examinations, treatment, and consultations
- Pre-hospitalisation care (up to three days before admission)
- Medicines and medical consumables
- Non-intensive and intensive care services, including ICU care
- Diagnostic and laboratory investigations
- Medical implants if necessary
- Accommodation and food services during hospitalisation
- Complications arising during treatment
The expansion is expected to benefit around 60 million older people, easing the financial burden of healthcare and ensuring better access to necessary medical services1
