The Health Ministry of India has recently released comprehensive guidelines regarding the issuance of Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) cards. These guidelines aim to clarify the benefits, charges, and the application process for both current central government employees and retirees. This article delves into the details of the CGHS card, its beneficiaries, associated charges, and the steps involved in obtaining and renewing the card.
What is a CGHS Card and Who Are Its Beneficiaries?
The Central Government Health Scheme is a healthcare initiative that provides extensive medical care to central government employees and pensioners. This program covers approximately 4.2 million beneficiaries across 80 cities in India, with plans to expand further to increase accessibility. The beneficiaries of the CGHS card include all central government employees and their dependent family members residing in CGHS-covered areas.
Recent Updates and Eligibility Criteria
In an office memorandum dated June 27, 2024, the Health Ministry outlined new guidelines for issuing Central Government Health Scheme cards to eligible pensioners and their family members. According to the memorandum, “CGHS card(s) will be issued to eligible pensioners and family pensioners, drawing pension from Central Civil Estimate and his/her dependent family members, when the pensioner is not availing the Fixed Medical Allowance (FMA).”
Charges for CGHS Cards
The cost of a Central Government Health Scheme card depends on the level of the employee at the time of retirement. The contribution is equivalent to 120 times the existing card contribution rate, covering 10 years. The rates are as follows:
- Levels 1 to 5: Rs 30,000 for a lifetime CGHS card
- Level 6: Rs 54,000 for a lifetime CGHS card
- Levels 7 to 11: Rs 78,000 for a lifetime CGHS card
- Level 12 and above: Rs 1,20,000 for a lifetime CGHS card
Application Process for CGHS Cards
Pensioners eligible for Central Government Health Scheme benefits can apply for a new CGHS card through an online portal. The process begins with generating a temporary reference number on the Central Government Health Scheme website (www.cghs.nic.in). The following documents are required:
- Proof of age of son (if son is a dependent)
- Self-attested copy of disability certificate issued by the medical board of a government hospital (if the dependent son is aged 25 and above)
- Self-attested PPO/provisional PPO or last pay certificate copy of Bharatkosh Challan for CGHS subscription paid
- Proof of availing/non-availing FMA
- Copy of ID proof of dependent family members (Passport, PAN card, masked Aadhar, voter ID card, etc.)
- Address proof
- Documents proving dependency of family members (wherever applicable)
Retiring employees can also apply for a pensioner card along with their pension papers six months before the date of retirement. The office will follow the same procedure as for serving employees to prepare their cards.
Options for Fixed Medical Allowance (FMA)
Pensioners who do not opt for the Fixed Medical Allowance (FMA) can avail themselves of a comprehensive Central Government Health Scheme card that covers both outpatient and inpatient treatments. Those who opt for the FMA can choose an ‘IPD only’ card, which is valid for cashless indoor treatments at Central Government Health Scheme-empanelled hospitals.
Electronic Central Government Health Scheme Card
Pensioners can access their Central Government Health Scheme card electronically through the website, myCGHS app, or Digilocker. The electronic card holds the same validity as the physical plastic card and facilitates easy verification.
How to Renew Your CGHS Card
To renew a Central Government Health Scheme card, a central government pensioner must submit the application Form AA or BB along with the Bharatkosh Payment challan for Rs 100 to the additional director of the city where they reside.
The Central Government Health Scheme is an essential healthcare initiative for central government employees and pensioners, providing comprehensive medical care. The recent updates and guidelines by the Health Ministry aim to streamline the process of obtaining and renewing Central Government Health Schemecards, making it easier for beneficiaries to access healthcare services. With the introduction of electronic cards and an online application process, the scheme is becoming more accessible and user-friendly, ensuring that beneficiaries receive the medical care they need efficiently and effectively.
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