New Cashless Scheme for Accident Victims

Source: The post New Cashless Scheme for Accident Victims has been created, based on the article “Universal healthcare is a must for Viksit Bharat” published in “Live mints” on 7th May 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 2-Governance-Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health.

News: This article discusses the Indian government’s plan to provide up to 1.5 lakh rupees of cashless emergency care for road accident victims. This initiative aims to reduce delays and refusals in treatment while ensuring accessible, prompt, and reliable healthcare services. New Cashless Scheme for Accident Victims

For details information on Road Accidents in India read this Article here

What is the New Cashless Scheme for Accident Victims?

Scope: The Indian government’s new scheme provides up to 1.5 lakh rupees of cashless treatment for road accident victims. It ensures one week of hospitalization under the Ayushman Bharat program.

Inclusivity: All accident victims receive coverage regardless of their insurance status.

Funding: Costs are reimbursed through the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund, which initially compensated only hit-and-run victims.

Objective: The scheme aims to reduce treatment delays and refusals while talks with general insurers explore third-party vehicle coverage premium contributions to keep costs low.

For details information on cashless treatment of road accident victims read this Article here

Why does India need a cashless scheme for accident victims?

Urgent Medical Attention: Many lives are lost due to road accidents in India. Immediate care could save lives, but financial uncertainty often causes hospitals to delay treatment.

Payment Confusion: Accident victims are sometimes denied or face delayed treatment while hospitals figure out payment details. Even insured patients wait hours for cashless approval.

Consistent Funding: The Motor Vehicle Accident Fund, created in 2022, now covers accident victims and will reimburse costs promptly, reducing confusion over bill payments.

Question for practice:

Discuss the significance of the Indian government’s new cashless scheme for road accident victims.