Launched on October 29, 2024, by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana, an extension of the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), provides Rs 5 lakh free health coverage to all citizens aged 70 and above. This initiative ensures cashless healthcare for senior citizens, covering a wide range of medical procedures. For competitive exam aspirants, this scheme is a vital current affairs topic, reflecting India’s commitment to healthcare inclusion.
A Comprehensive Healthcare Solution for Seniors
Key Features of the Vay Vandana Card
The Ayushman Vay Vandana Card offers Rs 5 lakh annual health cover to senior citizens, regardless of their socio-economic status. For those already enrolled in AB PM-JAY, an additional Rs 5 lakh top-up is provided. Beneficiaries of other government or private health schemes must choose between their existing coverage and this scheme, while those with private insurance remain eligible. The card covers 1,961 medical procedures across 27 specialties, including General Medicine, Cardiology, Oncology, and Orthopaedics, with no waiting period for pre-existing conditions.
How to Register for the Vay Vandana Card
A Simple Digital Process
Registering for the Ayushman Vay Vandana Card is straightforward through the Ayushman App. The steps include downloading the app, logging in as a beneficiary, authenticating via OTP, providing Aadhaar details, and completing e-KYC. Once approved, the card can be downloaded, granting access to cashless treatment at over 30,072 hospitals, including 13,352 private hospitals. This digital process ensures ease of access for senior citizens across India.
Key Medical Procedures Covered
| Specialty | Examples of Procedures |
|---|---|
| General Medicine | Hemodialysis, Peritoneal Dialysis |
| Cardiology | PTCA, Single/Double Chamber Pacemaker Implantation |
| Orthopaedics | Total Hip Replacement, Total Knee Replacement |
| Neurology | Acute Ischemic Stroke, Accelerated Hypertension |
| Oncology | Various cancer treatments |
Impact on Senior Citizens and Healthcare
Enhancing Accessibility and Inclusion
The Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana ensures universal healthcare access for senior citizens, covering critical treatments like hemodialysis, pacemaker implantation, and joint replacements. With a network of over 30,000 hospitals, the scheme provides cashless services, reducing financial burdens. Its alignment with AB PM-JAY, the world’s largest health assurance scheme, underscores India’s focus on health equity and social welfare, benefiting millions of elderly citizens.
Key Highlights of Ayushman Vay Vandana Yojana
- Launch Date: October 29, 2024
- Coverage: Rs 5 lakh free health cover for citizens aged 70 and above, with no socio-economic restrictions.
- Key Features: Covers 1,961 procedures across 27 specialties, including pre-existing conditions from day one.
- Hospital Network: Over 30,072 hospitals, including 13,352 private facilities.
- Registration: Via Ayushman App with Aadhaar-based e-KYC.
- Significance: Enhances healthcare access for seniors, aligning with AB PM-JAY and Viksit Bharat goals.