The government’s flagship health initiative Ayushman Bharat has expanded its work, focusing on senior citizens, especially those aged 70 years and above. This age group often faces critical health challenges and the Ayushman scheme provides free or affordable treatment to make healthcare more accessible.

Ayushman Bharat for those aged 70 and above is a significant step towards inclusive healthcare.

By registering and accessing the right resources, seniors can get quality health care without the financial strain.

With access to thousands of integrated hospitals, a wide range of treatments and streamlined processes, Ayushman Bharat makes healthcare more accessible, ensuring that our senior community gets the support it deserves.

WHAT IS AYUSHMAN BHARAT FOR SENIOR CITIZENS?

Under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), senior citizens above the age of 70 are entitled to a cashless medical cover of up to €5 lakh per family per year.

It covers hospital expenses for a wide range of conditions, including major surgery, chronic disease treatments and specialist medical services that tend to become more essential with age.

ELIGIBILITY AND HOW IT WORKS

• Once enrolled, beneficiaries can access out-of-pocket treatments at participating hospitals.
• The scheme covers more than 1,500 procedures, including knee and hip replacements, heart surgery and cancer treatments.
• It covers secondary and tertiary care, helping older adults manage both minor and critical conditions.

HOW TO REGISTER

• Visit Ayushman Mitra Centres: These are located in hospitals, PHCs and Common Service Centers (CSCs) where assistance is provided in person.
• Document Verification: Carry proof of identity (such as an Aadhaar PAN card) and proof of age to verify eligibility. Ayushman Mitras will assist in eligibility verification.
• Receive Ayushman Card: After verification, eligible individuals are issued a PM-JAY e-card, which can be used to access services across India.

Alternatively, beneficiaries can visit the official Ayushman Bharat website or download the Ayushman Bharat app to check their eligibility and register.

EMPANELED HOSPITAL FINDING

• Go to pmjay.gov.in, go to the ‘Hospitals’ section and enter your state and district to see nearby hospitals.
• Download the app and use the hospital locator, which provides directions to the nearest facility.
• Many public hospitals are included so you can directly consult nearby government hospitals.

TIPS FOR SENIOR CITIZENS ACCESSING AYUSHMAN BHARAT BENEFITS

• They are trained assistants at various hospitals and centers to help beneficiaries understand the process and help with registration and complaints.
• The government regularly updates the scheme with new hospitals and treatments. Checking online or with Ayushman Mitra can help you stay informed.
• Primary Health Centers (PHCs) offer quick consultations and AMP staff can also help you access Ayushman Bharat benefits for more specialized treatments.