IMA to continue suspension of Ayushman services in Haryana

The Indian Medical Association (IMA), Haryana, on Sunday resolved to continue the suspension of treatment under the Ayushman Bharat scheme until the government clears its pending dues. The decision was taken at a state-level meeting of the IMA held here, presided over by Dr MP Jain, state president.

The association has been invited by the government for fresh talks, with a meeting scheduled for tomorrow in Panchkula.

Dr Jain said although the government has released Rs 291 crore for 700 hospitals, the amount was “far from satisfactory.” He demanded that all pending dues be cleared and at least Rs 2,500 crore be reserved in the state budget for Ayushman-eligible patients.

“The Ayushman scheme is beneficial for citizens, but in the name of the scheme the government is exploiting private hospitals. We spread the scheme to every citizen and provide health benefits, but payments are not made on time. Hospitals struggle for six months for their dues. The government’s attitude is not good towards private hospitals,” Dr Jain said, adding that hospitals were reeling under a financial crunch.

He said, “The government is forcing us, but IMA Haryana is firm on its decision of not treating patients under the Ayushman scheme. The next decision will be taken after the meeting.”

Dr Vinay Aggarwal, chairman of the IMA building committee, pointed out that only 72 private hospitals in Delhi had enrolled under the scheme. “Hospital owners cannot keep looking at the government for their own fee. That is why Delhi hospitals stayed away. IMA stands with Haryana’s private hospitals,” he said.

Extending support, IMA national president Dr Dilip Bhanushali said, “IMA Haryana is struggling for its rights. Around Rs 250 crore of nearly 700 hospitals is pending. This payment should be made with interest. Exploitation of private hospitals will not be tolerated. Whatever decision IMA Haryana takes, doctors across the country stand with them.”