Daijiworld Media Network - Palamu

Palamu, Mar 18: The Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) is emerging as a lifeline for residents of Palamu district in Jharkhand, offering free and cashless treatment and easing the financial burden on poor families.

Under the scheme, eligible beneficiaries receive health coverage of up to Rs 5 lakh per family annually. Thousands in the district have availed of the benefits, gaining access to timely and quality healthcare without worrying about expenses.

Shakir Alam, a beneficiary’s relative, said the scheme proved crucial when his newborn fell critically ill soon after birth. Doctors diagnosed an infection and began immediate treatment, which he said would have been unaffordable otherwise. He added that nearly 70 to 80 per cent of the expenses were covered, and he did not have to pay from his own pocket.

Another beneficiary, Dhananjay Vishwakarma, said his son is currently undergoing treatment under the scheme. He noted that earlier, arranging funds for medical care was a major challenge, but the initiative introduced under Narendra Modi has brought significant relief to poor families.

Ravi Kumar said the scheme has brought a major transformation, enabling patients who previously lacked access to healthcare to now receive timely and better treatment.

Hospital administrator Manish Tiwari said around 10 patients are currently admitted under the scheme at his facility. He explained that the process is simple, requiring basic documents such as Aadhaar, ration card, or Ayushman card for verification, after which treatment is provided free of cost.

He added that the scheme covers a wide range of services, including general surgeries, neonatal and pediatric intensive care, emergency services, and treatment for critical illnesses.

With the scheme in place, many families no longer need to take loans or sell assets for medical treatment, and are instead receiving dignified and quality care, even at private hospitals.