How Seniors Over 70 Can Apply for Health Insurance Under Ayushman Bharat

India's Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), one of the largest publicly funded health assurance programs in the world, is now extending its coverage to include all senior citizens aged 70 and above. This expansion, announced on September 11, 2024, represents a significant step toward ensuring comprehensive healthcare access for India's elderly population, regardless of their previous insurance status.

Who is Eligible for the New Coverage?

Under the expanded Ayushman Bharat scheme, all senior citizens aged 70 years and above are eligible. This includes individuals who are already covered under AB PM-JAY and those who were previously not included. The move aims to provide broader healthcare access to millions of seniors across the country.

• Existing Beneficiaries: Senior citizens already covered under AB PM-JAY will receive an additional top-up cover of up to ₹5 lakh per year. This amount is separate from the coverage provided to other family members under 70 years.
• New Beneficiaries: Seniors who are not currently covered under AB PM-JAY will be eligible for up to ₹5 lakh per year on a family basis.

Integration with Other Health Schemes

The expansion also integrates with other health insurance schemes, providing seniors with greater flexibility:

• Public Health Insurance Schemes: Senior citizens already covered by schemes such as the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), or Ayushman CAPF can either retain their current coverage or switch to AB PM-JAY.
• Private Health Insurance: Those under private health insurance or the Employees' State Insurance Scheme can also avail themselves of benefits under AB PM-JAY.

How to Apply for the Ayushman Bharat Coverage for Seniors

To apply for the new health insurance coverage under the AB PM-JAY scheme, seniors need to follow these steps:

• Visit the Official Website: Go to the AB PM-JAY official website.
• Verification: Have your Aadhaar card or ration card verified at a PM-JAY kiosk.
• Submit Proofs: Provide family identification documents.
• Obtain e-Card: Get your e-card printed with a unique AB-PMJAY ID to access healthcare benefits.

Benefits of the Expanded AB PM-JAY Scheme

The Ayushman Bharat scheme covers a comprehensive range of medical expenses, including:

• Medical examinations, consultations, and treatments.
• Pre-hospitalization care for up to three days before admission.
• Provision of medicines and medical consumables.
• Both non-intensive and intensive care services.
• Diagnostic and laboratory investigations.
• Medical implants, if necessary.
• Accommodation and meals during hospitalization.
• Coverage for complications arising during treatment.

[Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical or legal advice. For specific information regarding your eligibility and coverage under AB PM-JAY, please visit the official website or consult a healthcare professional.]

This expansion is projected to benefit approximately 45 million families, translating to nearly 60 million senior citizens. With this new policy, India's elderly population will have better access to essential healthcare services, reducing their out-of-pocket expenses and enhancing their quality of life.

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By broadening the scope of coverage, the AB PM-JAY scheme continues its mission to provide accessible healthcare for all. Senior citizens can now enjoy comprehensive health insurance without worrying about age-related exclusions, thereby promoting a healthier and more secure life for India's ageing population.