Chandigarh, July 24: More than 50.3 lakh e-Health Cards have been distributed across Punjab under the Mukhyamantri Sehat Yojana, delivering cashless medical care valued at over 914 crore rupees to 5.12 lakh citizens within six and a half months of launch.
“The scheme has emerged as a boon for Punjabis by providing cashless free treatment,” stated Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. Balbir Singh during a press conference in Patiala. He maintained that the policy aims to guarantee quality care across the state without placing financial strain on households.
The universal health coverage program connects eligible families with critical care across 868 empanelled public and private facilities. Official data shows government institutions provided 45 percent of overall treatments, while private hospitals accounted for 55 percent. To date, 2.5 lakh families have utilized services, with 1.65 lakh individuals undergoing surgical procedures.
“Free treatment saved Punjabis from mental, financial and debt-related stress,” declared Dr. Balbir Singh. He affirmed that recipients have accessed crucial treatments including cancer care, knee replacements, cardiac surgeries, and chronic hemodialysis.
Addressing administrative oversight, the health minister explained that state authorities have instituted strict auditing measures to address non-compliance among private providers. Recent inspections led to 78 lakh rupees in penalties against 14 facilities, a refund of nearly three lakh rupees to six patients, and the de-empanelment of Sarvodaya Hospital in Jalandhar.
“People should report hospitals demanding money during cashless treatment on 104,” asserted Dr. Balbir Singh, urging citizens to inform authorities if empanelled hospitals ask for external purchases or payments.
State Health Agency Deputy CEO Dr. Andesh Kang, Additional Deputy Commissioner Anuprita Johal, and Civil Surgeon Dr. Shaily Jetley were also present during the briefing.
