State’s liability under Himcare stood at approximately ₹ 350 crore
TNR News Network
Shimla
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced significant reforms to the Himcare Scheme, implementing a “system change” (vyavastha parivartan) to block loopholes and prevent misuse.
The key change is the scheme’s continued operation in government health institutions, while dialysis services will remain free of cost in all private institutions operating within the state.
Since taking office, the Congress government has provided substantial support, offering benefits worth approximately ₹810 crore to over 5.80 lakh beneficiaries under the scheme.
To simplify the process, the government has decided that Himcare cards will be issued quarterly with a one-year validity. The application portal will open for one month every three months, specifically in March, June, September, and December. Recognizing the critical need, Medical College Principals and Medical Superintendents have been given special permission to issue cards any time of the year under special circumstances, ensuring the poor and needy are not denied immediate care.
The card facilitates free treatment for a total of 3,227 illnesses at 136 state health facilities, including PGI Chandigarh and Government Medical College & Hospital Chandigarh.
The card is offered in several categories
Free Card: For BPL families, MNREGA workers, street vendors, orphans, and jail inmates.
₹365 Annual Fee : For single women, contract and outsourced employees, persons with disability (40% or more), Mid-Day Meal workers, part-time workers, and daily wagers.
₹1,000 Annual Fee : For all other eligible categories.
The need for reform
The need for reform arose after complaints of fraud by private medical institutions under both Himcare and Ayushman Bharat. The state’s liability under Ayushman Bharat had alarmingly risen from ₹45 crore to ₹125 crore, while Himcare liabilities stood at approximately ₹350 crore. The Chief Minister stated that these system changes are aimed at closing the “back doors” for financial irregularities.
