Ranchi: The Jharkhand health department signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Tata AIG General Insurance Co Ltd on Thursday, aiming to provide better and cashless health services to state government employees in advanced healthcare facilities across the country. Under the new initiative, around 800 hospitals in Jharkhand and across the country have been empanelled, where employees and their family members can avail treatment. The initiative has encompassed healthcare facilities in Vellore, Chennai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru.
Background of the Scheme
The state government in February last year rolled out a health insurance scheme to offer coverage to state government staff, pensioners, advocates registered in the state, as well as those working in state-run universities, boards, and corporations. During the MoU signing ceremony, Health Minister Irfan Ansari stated that this scheme is not merely an agreement but a firm commitment ensuring the health security of state employees.
Key Features of the Revamped Scheme
"Due to limited income, employees often face financial crises during times of serious illness; keeping this in mind, the scheme has been implemented in a revamped format. The new framework ensures unlimited cashless facilities, extensive participation from major hospitals, and a transparent operational process," Ansari said. He further highlighted that Jharkhand is becoming the first state in the country to provide health insurance cards to all its employees, benefiting their families.
Expanded Coverage
The minister said that expanding the scope of the scheme, IAS and IPS officers, as well as former MLAs and MPs, have also been brought under its coverage. He added, "The health insurance coverage amount under the 'Abua Card' scheme has also been increased from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 15 lakh per year." This significant enhancement aims to provide greater financial protection to employees and their families during medical emergencies.
