Pics: Spoorthi Ullal

Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Jan 30: Patients enrolled under the Ayushman Bharat scheme cannot be denied treatment at any registered hospital, authorities have clarified. A circular has been issued to all hospitals in the district to ensure compliance.

“An Ayushman card is not mandatory at the time of hospital visit. A ration card, Aadhaar card, or a mobile linked with Aadhaar is sufficient,” said Dr Timmayya, Dakshina Kannada district health officer.

At Wenlock Hospital, the ICU has 116 beds, most of which are currently occupied. Authorities noted that adding more beds would require additional staff and equipment. A meeting on the issue will be held soon under the supervision of the district commissioner.

Meanwhile, the salaries of all National Health Mission employees for the past three months, totaling Rs 9.66 cr, have been released. About 75% of payments have already been made, with the remaining expected to be credited within a day or two. Salaries of contractual doctors have also been cleared, officials added.