In a first, Andhra Pradesh’s Dr YSR Aarogyasri scheme will be covering the post-operative expenses for individuals who have undergone surgery using the health insurance scheme.
Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy introduced the new changes while addressing the media while in Guntur on Sunday. He explained the newest benefits to be added to the list of services covered under the government health insurance plan.
From January 1 new Aarogyasri cards will be distributed which will have a QR code on them. This, the CM stated would not only allow for easy access to the benefits under the scheme, but also will make it easier for healthcare providers to access an individual’s medical history resulting in a smoother hospital visit.
“As of January first, 1200 diseases and illnesses will be covered under the Aarogyasri scheme. We are aiming to increase this to at least 2000 diseases by the end of three months,” said Jagan Reddy addressing the media while in Guntur.
In addition, plans are under way to cover charges for all costs incurred for cancer treatment, Jagan said.
“Currently someone who requires treatment for cancer had to undergo several sittings be it for radiation, chemotherapy or any other check-up. Most people require multiple cycles of this treatment which can cost anywhere up to Rs 2 lakhs. This needs to change. We are taking the initiatives to be able to cover all the charges incurred by people suffering from cancer,” added Jagan.
New pension rates announced
In addition to the above stated benefits, the Chief Minister also noted that pensions would be enhanced to those in particular categories. As per the plan, an amount of Rs 10,000 would be allocated for those undergoing dialysis while a pension amount of Rs 5,000 would be given to physically handicapped persons dependent on a wheelchair or other supportive device.
A pension of Rs 5000 will be allocated to those who have been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages three to five.
Noting that leprosy has not been given due attention, the state government has also decided to give a pension of Rs 3000 to those with leprosy.
Dr YSR Aarogyasri Scheme introduced by the Telangana state government is applicable to individuals who have an annual income of upto Rs 5 lakhs. The flagship health scheme was introduced to a United Andhra Pradesh in 2007 by then Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhar Reddy, Jagan Mohan Reddy’s father.