The Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) provides comprehensive healthcare benefits to central government employees, pensioners, and their families. With the implementation of the 7th Central Pay Commission (CPC) recommendations, significant changes have been made to the ward eligibility criteria for CGHS beneficiaries. This article delves into these modifications, the resulting challenges faced by pensioners, and the persistent issue of application denials at CGHS wellness centres.
In accordance with the Office Memorandum (OM) dated 28th October 2022, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare revised the ward entitlement criteria for CGHS beneficiaries. This revision, which partially modified the earlier OM from 9th January 2017, was aimed at aligning the benefits with the 7th CPC recommendations. The revised ward eligibility is as follows:
Despite the revised criteria, the Ministry has confirmed that there is no proposal to extend the updated ward eligibility to pensioners and family pensioners who retired before the implementation of the 7th CPC. This has led to a disparity in benefits, causing frustration among those affected. Many pensioners, including family pensioners, feel disadvantaged as their healthcare benefits do not reflect the current pay scales and cost of living.
A significant concern that has emerged is the denial of applications for revised ward eligibility at CGHS wellness centres. Numerous pensioners have reported that their applications for changing ward entitlement are not being accepted. This has raised questions about the efficiency and transparency of the CGHS administrative process.
The process for updating ward entitlement involves the submission of applications, which are then processed on a first-come-first-serve basis. Eligible beneficiaries should receive a printed Index Card of revised ward entitlement immediately, and they also have the option to download an e-CGHS card through their online CGHS account. However, many pensioners have found that their applications are either delayed or outright rejected without clear reasons.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare must address these issues promptly to ensure that all eligible pensioners receive their due benefits. There is a need for:
Leave a comment