Won’t tolerate irregularities in Ayushman Scheme, says Education Minister

Education Minister Mahipal Dhanda on Wednesday said Ayushman cards are prepared keeping in mind the convenience of people.

Irregularities in the “ambitious” scheme would not be tolerated, he added, stating that he himself would inspect hospitals to assess the ground reality.

Dhanda said this while chairing a meeting of the members of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), and Ayushman Mitras, at the Mini-Secretariat.

The Minister said all hospitals associated with the Ayushman panel must ensure that the conditions of the facilities provided under the scheme were prominently displayed both inside and outside the hospital premises.

If any hospital was found without these boards, action would be taken against them, and fines would be imposed, he added. The minister gave special instructions to the IMA President to closely monitor the implementation of the scheme.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Yadav assured the Education Minister that the empanelled hospitals would be monitored and, if needed, action would be initiated in this regard.

The ADC said the scheme was an ambitious initiative by the government, and it would not be allowed to fall prey to corruption in any way.

The minister said patients receiving treatment in Ayushman-empanelled hospitals should be made aware of the conditions related to scheme.

A separate bench should be set up at each empanelled hospital, where patients can enquire about all aspects of the scheme, he added.

At the time of discharge, the patient would have to provide a summary of their expenses, he noted.

The minister directed the IMA President to ensure that the process of installing these signboards is completed by June 15.

Civil Surgeon Dr Vijay Malik and IMA District President Yashbeer Malik were among those present at the event.