A major change is coming for veterans and their dependents who use the ECHS (Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme).
The Ministry of Health has issued a new notification stating that treatment rates under ECHS will now match the new rates listed under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS).
These revised rates will be fully implemented from December 15, 2025.
This decision will directly affect millions of ex-servicemen families. From December 15, OPD charges, hospitalization costs, medicines, and reimbursement amounts will be calculated under the new system.
The good news is that cashless treatment will continue, so beneficiaries will not have to pay from their own pocket.
However, the method used by hospitals to calculate bills will completely change to ensure more transparency and reduce confusion.
New Pricing System Based on City and Hospital Quality
One of the most important changes is that the old rule of “one country, one price” will no longer apply. Treatment costs will now depend on the hospital’s quality and the city in which treatment is taken.
Quality-Based Rates
Hospitals without quality accreditation (like NABH) will receive 15% less than the standard rate.
Larger, more advanced hospitals with accreditation will receive 15% more.
City-Based Rates
The government has divided cities into three categories:
Tier-1 (metro cities): Standard rates
Tier-2 (medium cities): 10% lower rates
Tier-3 (small cities): Up to 20% lower rates
Special Rule: Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, and Northeast India are all placed in Tier-2, ensuring that treatment remains affordable in these regions.
How Your Hospital Bill Will Now Be Calculated
The ward you choose during hospitalization will influence the final bill. The new system uses the semi-private ward rate as the reference point:
Semi-Private Ward: Standard rate applies
General Ward: 5% less than the standard rate
Private Ward: 5% more than the standard rate
OPD services, lab tests, daycare procedures, and many specialized tests will remain the same for all patients, regardless of the ward category.
One more important point:
Cancer surgeries will continue at the old rates.
Chemotherapy and radiation will follow the updated new rates.
