Private hospitals affiliated with the Andhra Pradesh Speciality Hospital Association (Asha) have announced the suspension of free healthcare services provided under the Dr NTR Vaidya Seva Trust scheme for economically weaker patients, effective Wednesday. The decision comes in response to unpaid dues amounting to ₹3,000 crore, which the state government owes hospitals for delivering cashless treatment under the scheme.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Asha said the government had earlier assured that all outstanding payments would be cleared by December last year, but no funds have been released so far. The association added that dues have continued to rise over the past three months, putting severe financial strain on hospitals.
Asha also raised concerns about the proposed Universal Health Scheme (UHS), questioning how the government plans to roll out a new initiative without settling existing liabilities. It pointed out that package rates under the UHS have not yet been finalised and said implementing outdated 2017 rates would not be feasible.
The association further noted that despite promises of a one-time settlement to clear dues, there has been no progress or discussion on the matter. It also highlighted the lack of consultation with Asha in designing the new scheme and the absence of revisions to treatment packages.
Warning that the ongoing situation could undermine the objectives of the NTR Vaidya Seva scheme, Asha’s state working group has urged the public to understand and support the protest by network hospitals across the state.