The rules for obtaining a CGHS card have been updated. Central government employees and pensioners now must apply online for their CGHS cards.
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) released guidelines for the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) card issuance on June 27, 2024.
This update, prompted by changes in the payment methods, mandates online applications for new CGHS cards.
Application Process for CGHS Cards
Central government employees must generate a temporary reference number by visiting www.cghs.nic.in.
After filling out and submitting the form online, they need to print the application and submit the hard copy to their respective departments.
Documents Required for Application:
- Proof of age of the dependent son (if applicable)
- Self-attested copy of the disability certificate from a government hospital (for dependent sons aged 25 years or above)
- Salary slip of the employee
- Address proof
- Documents proving dependency of family members (if applicable)
- Copy of ID proof of dependent family members (Passport, PAN Card, Aadhaar, Voter ID Card)
If the employee already possesses a CGHS card, a self-attested photocopy of the old card must also be submitted.
Definition of Family for CGHS Benefits
Understanding who qualifies as family and dependents is crucial:
- Spouse (only the first wife)
- Dependent parents or dependent parents-in-law
- Legally adopted children, stepchildren, and wards under these conditions:
Sons: Until they start earning or reach 25 years of age
Daughters: Until they start earning or get married, whichever comes first
Sons with permanent disabilities: No age limit
Dependent divorced, separated, or widowed daughters and sisters: No age limit
Dependent minor siblings: Until they reach adulthood
Dependent minor children of widowed or separated daughters: Until they reach adulthood
Simplified Access to CGHS Benefits
This new online application process aims to streamline and simplify access to health benefits for central government employees and pensioners, ensuring a more efficient and user-friendly experience.
