Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) Expands to Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab

In a move aimed at providing significant relief to Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab, the Central Government is gearing up to launch the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) in six districts across these states. A notification issued by the Director of Central CGHS directs the Additional Directors in Chandigarh and Delhi to visit these cities. The directive includes exploring the feasibility of establishing CGHS Wellness Centres and collecting data on potential beneficiaries, especially serving and retired individuals.

The notification emphasises the need to gather data on the expected number of beneficiaries, focusing on both serving and pensioners, and assess the availability of suitable accommodation in the vicinity of these districts. The priority will be determined based on this assessment. CGHS offers benefits such as outpatient and inpatient treatment at both government and private hospitals. Health check-ups can be conducted at government and empanelled diagnostic centres. Pensioners and other nominated beneficiaries have access to cashless facilities in empanelled hospitals and diagnostic services as per the government's approved list. This expansion reflects the government's commitment to ensuring accessible healthcare facilities for its citizens in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections.