Jaipur: The recent transition of power to the BJP in Rajasthan has cast doubt on the continuation of several schemes initiated by the previous Congress government. One such program facing uncertainty is the famous 'Mukhyamantri Chiranjeevi Swasthya Bima Yojana' spearheaded by former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot.
Outstanding payments worth crores of rupees
Private hospitals are now hesitant to provide treatment under this scheme, citing outstanding payments worth crores of rupees from the government. The change in government has further intensified the confusion surrounding the future of the Chiranjeevi Scheme.
Patients, denied treatment in private facilities, are increasingly seeking medical attention in government hospitals. There are also speculations that the newly elected BJP government might rebrand the scheme as the 'Ayushman Bharat Mukhyamantri Chiranjeevi Swasthya Bima Yojana.'
Dr. Achal Sharma, Superintendent of Sawai Mansingh Hospital in Jaipur, notes a sudden surge in patient numbers but remains uncertain about the underlying reasons for the increase.
Dr. Vijay Kapoor, President of the Private Hospital and Nursing Home Society Rajasthan, expresses concerns about the ongoing uncertainty, hampering the functioning of private hospitals. He highlights the pending payments and alleges corruption within the scheme since its inception.
Administration's perspective
In response to the private hospitals' refusal to treat under the Chiranjeevi scheme, Shubhra Singh, Additional Chief Secretary of the Rajasthan Health Department, states that the scheme is still in operation. No instructions have been issued to halt it, and no complaints regarding treatment denial have been received.
An operator of a private hospital in Sanganer, Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma's assembly constituency, revealed on condition of anonymity that they are currently not providing treatment under Chiranjeevi due to pending payments. The lack of communication from the government, coupled with the change in administration, raises doubts about the scheme's future.
About the Chiranjeevi Yojana
The Chiranjeevi Yojana, offering free health insurance up to Rs 25 lakh, was pledged to be increased to Rs 50 lakh by Ashok Gehlot upon returning to power. There is ongoing discussion about renaming the scheme to 'Ayushman Bharat Mukhyamantri Chiranjeevi Health Insurance Scheme.'
Former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot, while acknowledging the scheme's benefits, expresses openness to a name change. However, he emphasizes the importance of robust implementation and addressing any shortcomings in the scheme.
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