The Ayushman Bharat 2.0 initiative has achieved a major milestone, expanding healthcare coverage to 600 million beneficiaries across India. This expansion represents a significant step forward in ensuring universal health coverage and accessible healthcare for all citizens.
Program Highlights
- 600 million beneficiaries covered under health insurance
- 150,000 Health and Wellness Centres operational
- Telemedicine services available in 50,000 centres
- Reduction in out-of-pocket healthcare expenses by 30%
Ayushman Bharat 2.0 builds upon the success of the original program, expanding coverage and services. The initiative includes two major components: Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) and the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) health insurance scheme.
The program has established 150,000 Health and Wellness Centres across the country, providing primary healthcare services to citizens in rural and urban areas. These centres offer comprehensive healthcare including preventive, promotive, and curative services.
Telemedicine services have been integrated into 50,000 centres, enabling remote consultations and improving access to specialist care. This has been particularly beneficial for patients in remote areas who previously had to travel long distances for medical consultations.
The health insurance component has significantly reduced out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, with beneficiaries reporting a 30% reduction in medical costs. The scheme covers hospitalization expenses up to ₹5 lakh per family per year.
Healthcare experts have commended the program's impact on improving healthcare accessibility and reducing financial burden on families. The initiative is seen as a model for universal health coverage in developing countries.