A Comprehensive Guide to Ayushman Bharat Card: Eligibility, Application Process, and Key Benefits

The Ayushman Bharat Card, also known as the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) card, is a healthcare initiative by the Government of India aimed at providing financial protection and healthcare access to millions of Indian citizens. This guide will walk you through the process of obtaining an Ayushman Bharat Card, including eligibility criteria, step-by-step application procedures, and the key benefits it offers. Additionally, we'll provide information on the official website, support services, and customer care details, as well as answer some important FAQs.

Table of Contents

1. What is Ayushman Bharat Card?

2. Eligibility Criteria

3. Step-by-Step Application Process

   • 3.1. Online Application

   • 3.2. Offline Application

4. Key Benefits of Ayushman Bharat Card

5. Official Website and Online Resources

6. Support Services

7. Customer Care Details

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is Ayushman Bharat Card?

The Ayushman Bharat Card, or PM-JAY card, is a healthcare initiative under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), which is the world's largest government-funded healthcare program. It was launched in September 2018 and aims to provide health coverage to over 10 crore families (approximately 50 crore beneficiaries) across India. The program is designed to provide financial protection to families in need by covering their medical expenses and ensuring access to quality healthcare services.

2. Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for an Ayushman Bharat Card, you must meet the following criteria:

• Socio-Economic Criteria: Families from rural and urban areas who are categorized as deprived under the SECC (Socio-Economic Caste Census) database are eligible.

• Household Size: The card is available to families with a household size of up to 7 members.

• Identification: Families should possess a valid Aadhaar card as proof of identity.

• Exclusion Criteria: Certain categories of individuals are excluded from the scheme, including those who pay income tax or possess a government job.

• Automated Selection: The beneficiary selection process is automated and based on the SECC database. If your family qualifies, you will receive an Ayushman Bharat Card.

3. Step-by-Step Application Process

3.1. Online Application

To apply for the Ayushman Bharat Card online, follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit the Official Website

Go to the official website of Ayushman Bharat, which is www.pmjay.gov.in.

Step 2: Check Eligibility

On the homepage, you'll find an "Am I Eligible" tab. Click on it to check if your family is eligible for the scheme.

Step 3: Online Registration

If your family is eligible, proceed with online registration. Fill in the required details, including Aadhaar card information, contact details, and the number of family members.

Step 4: Verification

Your application will be verified against the SECC database. Once verified, you will receive an Ayushman Bharat Card.

3.2. Offline Application

If you prefer applying offline, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit CSC or Nearby Government Hospital

Visit your nearest Common Service Center (CSC) or a government hospital. These centres are equipped to assist you with the offline application process.

Step 2: Provide Necessary Information

Submit your Aadhaar card and other required information to the authorities at the CSC or hospital.

Step 3: Application Processing

The authorities will process your application and verify your eligibility. If you qualify, you will be issued an Ayushman Bharat Card.

4. Key Benefits of Ayushman Bharat Card

The Ayushman Bharat Card provides several key benefits, including:

• Healthcare Coverage: The card offers coverage for a wide range of medical treatments and surgeries, including pre-existing conditions.

• Cashless Treatment: Cardholders can avail of cashless treatment at empanelled hospitals and healthcare facilities.

• Coverage Amount: Families are eligible for coverage of up to ₹5 lakhs per year for hospitalization expenses.

• Portability: The card is portable, which means you can avail treatment at any empanelled hospital across India.

• No Cap on Family Size: There is no cap on the family size, ensuring that all eligible family members are covered.

5. Official Website and Online Resources

The official website of Ayushman Bharat is a valuable resource for information, updates, and application procedures. You can visit the website at www.pmjay.gov.in.

The website provides access to various tools and resources, including:

• Am I Eligible: Check your family's eligibility for the scheme.

• Hospital Locator: Find empaneled hospitals in your area.

• Know Your Entitlement: Discover the benefits and entitlements provided under Ayushman Bharat.

• Download Forms: Access application forms and related documents.

6. Support Services

If you need assistance with your Ayushman Bharat Card application, you can reach out to the following support services:

• Common Service Centers (CSC): Visit your nearest CSC for in-person assistance with the application process.

• Toll-Free Helpline: Call the Ayushman Bharat toll-free helpline at 14555 for guidance and support.

• Local Health Officials: You can also contact local health officials or government hospitals for assistance.

7. Customer Care Details

For any queries or concerns related to Ayushman Bharat, you can reach out to the customer care services through the following contact information:

• Toll-Free Helpline: Dial 14555 to connect with the Ayushman Bharat customer care team.

• Email Support: Send an email to support@pmjay.gov.in for assistance.

• Social Media: You can also connect with Ayushman Bharat on social media platforms for updates and queries.

8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the coverage amount provided by Ayushman Bharat?

Ans: Ayushman Bharat provides coverage of up to ₹5 lakhs per year for hospitalization expenses.

Q2: Can I apply for the Ayushman Bharat Card if my family size is more than 7 members?

Ans: Yes, there is no cap on family size. All eligible family members can be covered.

Q3: How long does it take to receive the Ayushman Bharat Card after applying?

Ans: The verification and card issuance process may take a few weeks. You will be notified once your application is approved.

Q4: Can I avail cashless treatment at any hospital in India with the Ayushman Bharat Card?

Ans: Yes, the card is portable, allowing you to avail cashless treatment at any empanelled hospital across India.