PNS | DEHRADUN
The State health minister Dhan Singh Rawat has instructed the chief medical officers (CMOs) of all districts in the State to develop a concrete action plan for issuing Ayushman cards to ensure that 100 per cent of the population is covered. “The goal is to issue Ayushman cards for 97.11 lakh individuals across 23.89 lakh families in the State. So far, Ayushman cards have been issued for 53.61 lakh individuals while the golden cards have been provided to 4.73 lakh people. Additionally, around 2,000 Ayushman cards have been issued to individuals above the age of 70 years,” he said.
The minister further said that under the Ayushman scheme, 12.32 lakh individuals have benefited so far in the State, amounting to an expenditure of Rs 2,289 crore. Over one lakh golden card holders have also received health benefits through this scheme, he added.
Rawat directed the officials concerned to launch a special campaign by March 31 to assist in the issuance of cards for senior citizens above 70 years of age. “This initiative will involve collaboration with Community Health Officers (CHO), Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANM), ASHA workers and Ayushman Mitras. The secretary, Health and the chairman of the State Health Authority will review the campaign through virtual meetings with district magistrates and CMOs across all districts,” he added.
In addition, Rawat emphasised the need for a better strategy to maximise patient treatment under the Ayushman Yojana in government-run medical colleges and hospitals. He also provided necessary instructions to the officials concerned on various matters, including practical difficulties in obtaining golden cards, improving the 108 emergency services and filling vacant positions in various cadres at State-run medical facilities.
