State IMA withdraws suspension of Ayushman services

After nearly three weeks of protest, the Indian Medical Association (IMA) Haryana unit on Monday announced to withdraw its suspension of treatment under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, bringing relief to lakhs of patients across the state. The decision came after a marathon meeting with Chief Secretary Anurag Rastogi, Additional Chief Secretary (Health) Sudhir Rajpal, and senior officials of the Ayushman Bharat scheme and Health Department.

The IMA had suspended the treatment of Ayushman Bharat beneficiaries from August 7, pressing for demands, including clearance of dues, prevention of ‘illogical’ deductions in bills, and streamlined processes. The strike had inconvenienced patients, many of whom were forced to delay elective surgeries or turn to already overburdened government hospitals.

“We had a meeting with senior officials, which lasted for around three hours. We were assured that the issues would be resolved and that the dues will be cleared by September 15. The fresh bills will be cleared within a month,” said Dr Mahabeer P Jain, president, IMA Haryana.

He further said they were assured that there would be no shortage of budget and other issues, like deduction, were also discussed.

Another meeting would be convened on October 15 to review the progress of two months. “We have been assured that the state IMA will have a regular meeting with Ayushman Bharat scheme officials after every two weeks to address any issue that may arise,” said Jain.

The action taken against hospitals, including issuance of show-cause notices and suspension of empanelment during the strike, would be withdrawn.