Everything you need to know about free health insurance!

In 2018, the Indian government launched Ayushman Bharat to make healthcare more accessible across the country.

Initially, it established Health and Wellness Centers and introduced the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), offering health coverage to low-income families. In September 2024, it was expanded to offer free health insurance of up to ₹5 lakh annually to every Senior citizen above 70 years!

Here’s everything you need to know about this free health insurance for your parents or grandparents.

What exactly is PM-JAY?

Launched in 2018, PM-JAY is India’s largest government-backed health insurance scheme. Earlier, it used to provide ₹5 lakh annual coverage per family per year, focusing on low-income households. Recently expanded, PM-JAY now covers all citizens aged 70 and above, regardless of income, ensuring they have access to essential health services.

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Recent developments in PM-JAY

1. All Indian citizens aged 70+ are now eligible for PM-JAY, regardless of income.
2. Senior Citizens  of a family get up to ₹5 lakh annually in free health insurance covering hospital stays and treatments.
3. Senior Citizens with existing government or private health plans can add PM-JAY benefits or choose the best option.
4. Already Covered senior citizens gain an extra ₹5 lakh just for themselves, separate from family coverage.
5. Previously uninsured senior citizens now get ₹5 lakh annual coverage per family.

And finally, now, senior citizens aged above 70 will receive a special Ayushman Vaya Vandana card, for easy access to benefits!

How does the Ayushmaan Vaya Vandana card help?

The Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card acts like an instant access card, allowing senior citizens to receive free hospital treatment without any out-of-pocket expenses.

Unlike traditional insurance, where payments are made upfront and later claimed, this card lets citizens aged 70 and above tap directly into ₹5 lakh of annual health coverage at eligible hospitals. It’s a cashless solution that immediately covers eligible treatments.

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Eligible treatments

• Heart diseases (e.g., heart attack, bypass surgery)
• Respiratory conditions (e.g., asthma, pneumonia)
• Orthopedic issues (e.g., joint replacement surgeries)
• Gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., appendicitis, hernia)
• Neurological conditions (e.g., stroke, epilepsy)
• Cancer treatments (chemotherapy, radiation)
• Kidney disorders (dialysis, transplantation)
• Diabetes-related complications

That’s not it! There’s a lot more covered.

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Features of Ayushman Vaya Vandana card

• Daycare procedures like dialysis, chemotherapy, cataract surgeries, and more.
• Coverage for families of up to five members, ensuring comprehensive support.
• No waiting period for pre-existing diseases for senior citizens.
• Access to a wide network of hospitals across India.

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Steps to apply online

Step 1: Visit the NHA Website / Ayushman App

Step 2: Click “Register as Beneficiary” and enter your Aadhaar number

Step 3: Complete e-KYC by verifying the OTPs sent to your mobile

Step 4: Fill in family details and submit your application

Note: The Ayushman App is only available for android users.

Check out this video for a detailed step-by-step guide on applying!
https://www.instagram.com/p/DCHDpMVCVCf/

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How to find eligible hospitals?

Step 1: Access the entire list of empanelled hospitals here ‍

Step 2: Search for nearby hospitals in the list to find eligible facilities in your area.

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Limitations of Ayushman Vaya Vandana card

• Coverage mainly applies to general wards, which may not be comfortable for senior citizens.
• Residents of Delhi and West Bengal aren’t eligible due to local government rules.
• The hospital list is limited and usually doesn’t include premium facilities.
• Hospital access varies by state, so coverage isn’t always consistent.
• ₹5 lakh per family might not cover serious or long-term treatments.
• There’s no reimbursement if you go outside the listed hospitals.

Ayushman Card, ABHA card, Vaya Vandana card, confused?

Comparing PM-JAY with Private Health Insurance

While the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card provides crucial support, it doesn’t replace private health insurance. For comprehensive coverage, it’s wise to consider a customized private plan suited to your specific healthcare needs.

Final takeaway

The Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card redefines senior healthcare by removing income-based barriers and simplifying access. It lowers healthcare-related financial stress on families, making quality treatment accessible instantly at empanelled hospitals nationwide.

In an era where medical costs are rising, the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card stands out by addressing the immediate healthcare needs of senior citizens, and supporting their well-being while ensuring financial peace for families.

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Summary

To make your life easier, we have summarised the above Read here. Hope you enjoyed it!