Medical expenses often become a major concern in old age, especially during emergencies that require hospitalization.
To reduce this financial burden, the Central Government has expanded the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) by introducing the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card.
Under this scheme, every eligible senior citizen aged 70 years and above can receive cashless treatment worth up to ₹5 lakh every year at empanelled government and private hospitals.
Who Can Get the Benefit?
The biggest change under the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card is that there is no income limit. Earlier, Ayushman Bharat mainly covered economically weaker families.
Now, all Indian citizens aged 70 years or above are eligible, regardless of their income or financial status.
Eligible beneficiaries can get cashless treatment up to ₹5 lakh annually at empanelled hospitals without paying money in advance.
What If You Already Have Health Insurance?
Senior citizens who already have an Ayushman Bharat card will receive a separate Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card under the expanded scheme.
Those covered under CGHS, ECHS, or private health insurance can also apply for the card. However, they should check the applicable claim rules and conditions before using the benefits.
How to Apply for the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card
Applying for the card is simple and requires very little paperwork. An Aadhaar card is needed for age verification and identity proof.
Eligible senior citizens can register from home using the Ayushman Bharat mobile app. They can also visit a nearby Common Service Center (CSC) or any authorized enrollment center for biometric verification.
After the verification is completed, the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card is issued.
Important Things to Remember Before Treatment
Before visiting a hospital, make sure it is empanelled under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. The list of approved hospitals is available on the official PMJAY website.
While getting admitted, carry both your Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card and Aadhaar card to make the admission process smooth.
Also remember that the scheme covers only those illnesses, surgeries, and medical procedures that are included under the PMJAY treatment package.
