Expansion of Ayushman Bharat: Age Criteria Shift and Fund Utilization Challenges

A parliamentary committee has proposed lowering the age criterion for Ayushman Vay Vandana Cards from 70 to 60 years to expand the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme's coverage. It recommended doubling healthcare coverage and incorporating high-end treatments. Challenges in fund utilization and implementation bottlenecks were also highlighted.

A parliamentary committee has urged a significant expansion of the Ayushman Bharat health insurance scheme by altering age criteria and addressing fund utilization inefficiencies. Recommendations include lowering the eligibility age for Ayushman Vay Vandana Cards from 70 to 60 years, irrespective of socio-economic status, to widen scheme coverage.

To further support vulnerable populations, the committee also recommends increasing healthcare coverage from the current Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh per family annually. Additional recommendations include reviewing package coverage under the scheme to include critical illnesses and expensive diagnostics, ensuring broader healthcare access.

Despite progress, the committee noted underutilization of funds and spending inefficiencies. It urged a thorough review of fund release processes and suggested linking fund allocation to state performance metrics, such as card creation and hospital admissions, to enhance scheme efficacy and reach.

(With inputs from agencies.)