Chandigarh, July 2: More than 6,000 patients across Punjab received free, life-saving cardiac care over the last five months under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana. According to the State Health Agency, the critical heart operations totaled 64.82 crore rupees, making coronary interventions the second-highest expenditure category under the state initiative. The cashless facility ensures that heart attack patients receive immediate medical attention without facing administrative or financial delays.
State officials noted that the average cost per cardiac case stands at 1,05,611 rupees, though individual amounts vary based on clinical complexity. By removing the financial burden from families during critical hours, the program has secured a spot as one of the most utilized healthcare initiatives in the state, ranking sixth overall by patient volume.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh affirmed that the initiative successfully bridges the gap between emergency onset and hospital care. “Cashless treatment has reduced hesitation among patients and their families during medical emergencies. More people are reaching hospitals in time, and doctors can start treatment without financial delays. This is helping save lives,” the Minister declared.
Among the beneficiaries is Sheikh Zishan Qureshi from Malerkotla, who underwent a Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty alongside a diagnostic angiogram after suffering an acute heart issue. The state scheme covered his entire treatment cost of 80,320 rupees. “It was a huge relief for both my family and me that the treatment was carried out on time and without financial stress. The Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana has made emergency care more accessible for people across Punjab,” Qureshi stated.
Medical experts maintain that instant intervention is the single most critical factor in surviving a cardiac event. The elimination of upfront payment requests allows clinical teams to operate well within the vital therapeutic window.
Dr Saurabh Sharma, Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Cardiology at Government Medical College and Rajindra Hospital, Patiala, asserted that immediate access alters patient outcomes completely. “Every minute of delay increases the risk of permanent heart damage. Cashless treatment under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana allows doctors to begin treatment immediately instead of waiting for families to arrange money,” he said.
The program continues to expand its reach, providing comprehensive coverage for a diverse range of complex clinical treatments across the state. Minister Dr Balbir Singh added that the rising volume of successful procedures indicates a substantial growth in public trust regarding state-backed medical infrastructure.
