Since the change in government, private hospitals have quietly halted the treatment provided under the RCHS (Rajasthan Government Health Scheme) and the Chiranjeevi Scheme. In cases where the cost of treatment becomes substantial after admission, hospitals refuse to proceed with the required medical care. The situation has reached a point where, in critical conditions, families are compelled to take patients to government hospitals. Concurrently, following the discontinuation of treatment in private hospitals, the Intensive Care Units (ICUs) at SMS Hospital and RUHS are nearing full capacity. Until the Bhajan Lal government clarifies its stance on these two schemes, the public is likely to face considerable challenges. It is worth noting, that the Bharatiya Janata Party had indicated in its manifesto the intention to implement the Ayushman Bharat scheme upon assuming power. However, the insurance coverage under Ayushman Bharat is only 5 lakh, significantly lower than the current coverage provided by the Chiranjeevi Scheme, which stands at 25 lakh. With the Congress party out of power, private hospitals are now uncertain about receiving payments for previous services rendered, leading to their reluctance to admit new patients.
Treatment not administered despite email approval
Instances of treatment refusal despite email approval have been reported, such as in a private hospital in Vaishali Nagar. In this case, a patient covered under RCHS was admitted, and despite receiving approval via SMS and email confirmation with a generated TID number, the hospital refrained from administering the necessary injection. Consequently, the patient’s family opted to transfer him to RUHS.
Hospitals cite three primary reasons for their stance
Dr Sunil Kumar Garsa, the state coordinator for private hospital-related institutions, expressed that private hospitals are willing to offer treatment, but they seek clarity from the new government regarding its position on these schemes. Additionally, Garsa emphasized that the packages under RCHS have been in effect since 2013, and those under the Chiranjeevi Scheme have been operational since the Bhamashah Yojana of 2016. He also called for a revision of the packages. Garsa highlighted that delayed payments in both schemes create distress for hospital administrations, and a clear government stance would alleviate concerns, ensuring smooth treatment processes.
Medication discontinued for the last 2 months
Moreover, RCHS cardholders have faced a lack of medication for almost the last two months. Medical centres have also ceased providing medicines to employees, retired staff, and their relatives due to apprehensions about non-payment. The change in government has led to a near-complete halt in treatment, with patients now resorting to government facilities for care.
