Kolkata hospitals are gearing up to adopt the Ayushman Bharat scheme or transition the existing Swasthya Sathi into it, following government directives. A meeting at Swasthya Bhavan on Friday addressed the issue, raising hopes for reviving a universal health scheme similar to Swasthya Sathi, which was introduced by the Trinamool government but largely discontinued at most hospitals after the political change in the state.
Hospitals Prepare for New Scheme
Several hospitals that have been receiving patient inquiries about Ayushman Bharat have started preparations to adopt the new scheme. Some already admit patients under Ayushman Bharat and are looking forward to a unified scheme that combines the benefits of both Swasthya Sathi and Ayushman.
Subhashis Datta, Chief General Manager – Operations at Ruby General Hospital, said, "We have received numerous calls from patients since Saturday, enquiring about Ayushman Bharat and how to enrol. We are on the panel for the scheme and admit patients under Ayushman, though all are from neighbouring states. Now, we are getting queries from local patients, especially those above 70 years who are eligible without other conditions. We expect an announcement soon."
Need for a Universal Scheme
Rupak Barua, President of the Association of Hospitals of Eastern India (AHEI) and CEO of Woodlands Hospital, emphasized the need for a smooth transition. "We need a universal health scheme covering everyone. While Ayushman has multiple conditions, it is a national scheme that could be fused with Swasthya Sathi, a universal scheme. That way, none will be left out. Also, the new scheme should ensure reasonable rates and package pricing so all hospitals can accept it. Swasthya Sathi patients were refused at most hospitals due to poor cost structure, and payments need to be quicker," he said.
Prashant Sharma, CEO of Charnock Hospital and Chairperson of the Indian Chamber of Commerce healthcare committee, stressed the urgency: "Ayushman Bharat needs to be implemented soon for patients' sake. India implemented the world's largest universal health coverage under Ayushman Bharat, opening treatment gates for the lowest strata. A smooth transition from Swasthya Sathi to Ayushman is essential for continuity of medical facilities for Bengal's people."
Phased Implementation Suggested
Desun Hospital already receives a steady flow of patients from Bihar and Jharkhand under Ayushman Bharat, according to Chairman and MD Sajal Dutta. "We welcome discussions around convergence of Ayushman Bharat and Swasthya Sathi, as any step towards streamlining healthcare access and reducing financial burden is encouraging. However, we request the government to do it in a phased manner so hospitals don't face issues in processing applications and patients don't encounter problems."
BP Poddar Hospital still accepts Swasthya Sathi cards but in a limited way. Group Advisor Supriyo Chakrabarty said, "It is a government scheme that cannot be rejected until replaced. At present, we await further updates, guidelines, and instructions from the government."
