PMJAY Scheme: How can senior citizens get Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card for free treatment up to Rs 5 lakh per annum?

In a significant step towards accessible healthcare for the elderly, the government has officially launched an initiative to cover senior citizens aged 70 years and above under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. The scheme, which was announced earlier and was officially launched on Dhanvantri Jayanti and 9th Ayurveda Day, aims to provide health insurance of up to Rs 5 lakh to eligible senior citizens. However, in order to benefit from these benefits, senior citizens must obtain an ‘Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card’.

Eligibility and Benefits: Coverage for Seniors Age 70 and Over

The program is open to all senior citizens aged 70 and above, with no income or asset requirements. This card provides joint health insurance; If both spouses are eligible, they share the total limit of Rs 5 lakh. Additionally, families currently enrolled in Ayushman Bharat can extend a separate Rs 5 lakh cover to elderly family members aged 70 years and above.

Options for Retired Government Employees

Retired government employees above 70 years of age who are currently receiving health benefits from other schemes like CGHS, SGHS or ECHS can either retain their existing cover or opt for this new Ayushman Bharat scheme.

Steps to Get Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card

Eligible senior citizens or their family members can apply for Ayushman card online through the official website. https://nha.gov.in/PM-JAYBy selecting ‘PMJAY For 70+’. While senior citizens can select ‘Beneficiary’ to register with their personal details and complete e-KYC, family members can register on behalf of senior citizens by selecting ‘Operator’.

Alternative Registration via Ayushman App

Ayushman App also offers a convenient way to apply for the card. After downloading the app, users can select ‘Beneficiary’ or ‘Operator’ to log in, complete e-KYC and download the Ayushman card.

Important Points About Health Insurance

The Rs 5 lakh coverage is valid on a family basis, so additional family elders aged 70 years and above can enroll under the same family limit. A total of Rs 5 lakh will be shared among registered family members.

For More Help

For more details, individuals can visit the official Ayushman Bharat website or consult the nearest Common Service Center (CSC) for additional support.