Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana – Ayushman Bharat

Abstract

Introduction: “Ayushman Bharat Initiative” also known as Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) was launched in 2018, by Government of India. The core principle of Ayushman Bharat - National health protection mission is co-operative federalism and flexibility to states. PMJAY encapsulates a progression towards promotive, preventive, palliative and rehabilitative aspects of Universal Health coverage through access of Health and Wellness Centre (HWCs) at the primary level and provisioning of financial protection for accessing curative care at the secondary and tertiary levels through engagement with both public and private sector. PMJAY covers 1350 medical packages including surgery and day care treatments, cost of medicines and diagnostics. It involved participation of centre and states, use of technology for administration of the scheme and involved participation of private sector hospitals and insurers to provide accessible and affordable healthcare by a large section of society. Aims and objectives: The objective of this review is to explore the PMJAY program and to assess how far it could achieve the goal of universal health coverage. Conclusion: It is a major step by Government of India to fulfil the goal of universal health coverage hence if implemented properly it could be a game changer.