Pilot program for cashless treatment of road accident victims

Source-This post on Pilot program for cashless treatment of road accident victims is based on the article “Centre to provide cashless treatment for road crash victims” published in “The Hindu” on 15th March 2024.

Why in the News?

The Road Transport and Highways Ministry recently announced a pilot program to provide cashless treatment of up to ₹1.5 lakh to all victims of road accidents. The pilot program has been initiated in Chandigarh.

What are the key details of the pilot program?

Implementing agency– The National Health Authority (NHA) will implement the program and work together with the police, hospitals, and the State Health Agency.

Objective– Its goal is to establish a system that ensures timely medical assistance to road accident victims, especially during the crucial “golden hour.”

Note– According to the Motor Vehicles Amendment Act of 2019, the golden hour is the critical time just after an injury when fast medical care can greatly increase chances of survival.

1. Coverage:
a. Victims will receive cashless treatment up to a maximum of Rs 1.5 lakhs per person per accident, valid for a maximum of 7 days from the accident date.
b. The scheme will cover all victims of road accidents involving motor vehicles on any type of road.
c. Also, trauma and polytrauma packages from the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana will be covered.

2. Reimbursement– Hospitals will receive reimbursement from the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund after filing claims for the treatment provided.

What is National Health Authority (NHA)?

1. About– It is the apex body tasked with executing Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PM JAY).

2. Mandate– Its responsibilities include devising strategy, developing technological infrastructure, and implementing the “National Digital Health Mission” to establish a National Digital Health Eco-system.

3. Nodal Ministry– It operates as an attached office under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, functioning autonomously and overseen by a Governing Board chaired by the Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare.

UPSC Syllabus- Schemes & Programmes