Swasthya Sathi Scheme :-In this article, we will provide you with information about the new Swasthya Sathi scheme, allowing you to apply for health benefits. We’ll outline the eligibility and age criteria required to apply for the Swasthya Sathi Smart Card scheme launched by the Chief Minister of West Bengal for 2024. Additionally, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step application process to obtain the Swasthya Sathi Smart Card for the upcoming year.
Swasthya Sathi Scheme 2024
Contents
The Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, recently introduced the Swasthya Sathi Health Scheme 2024, aiming to cover the entire population of the state. This initiative is part of several schemes launched to support residents, especially during the challenges posed by the pandemic. The scheme, effective from December 1, 2020, offers cashless health benefits and is fully funded by the West Bengal government.
Swasthya Sathi Scheme Overview
| Name | (Smart Card) Swasthya Sathi Scheme |
| Launched by | Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee |
| Objective | Providing Health Services |
| Beneficiary | Residents of West Bengal State |
| Category | Govt. Scheme |
| Official site | https://swasthyasathi.gov.in/ |
Objective Of Swasthya Sathi Scheme
The Swasthya Sathi Cashless Health Scheme in West Bengal aims to provide cashless medical treatments for residents. Initially launched in 2016, it covered secondary and tertiary care up to ₹5 lakh per annum per family. Now, the scheme has been expanded to include all residents of the state, regardless of economic or social status. Health cards will be distributed to women in families starting from December 1, 2020.
Swasthya Sathi Smart Card
The Swasthya Sathi Smart Card will be given to the senior-most female member of eligible households. With this card, people can receive health benefits in both private and public hospitals without any specific eligibility criteria. The scheme is open to all families in West Bengal State. The state government has allocated an annual expenditure of approximately ₹2000 crore for this initiative. Smart cards enable individuals to undergo treatments without paying anything to the hospital authorities.
Benefits Of Swasthya Sathi Yojana 2024
- Approximately 7.5 crore people are expected to enroll in the West Bengal State’s Cashless Health Scheme.
- The Chief Minister announced that every family in the state will be included in the Swasthya Sathi scheme.
- Unlike Ayushman Bharat Yojana, where the Central Government covers 60%, this Cashless Health Scheme will be fully funded by the State Government.
- The primary benefit is the smart card issued to each family, usable in all government and private hospitals in West Bengal.
Features Of Swasthya Sathi Scheme
- The Swasthya Sathi Scheme provides a health cover of Rs 5 lakh per family annually for secondary and tertiary care.
- All treatments are paperless, cashless, and smart card-based.
- The scheme covers all pre-existing diseases, and there are no restrictions on family size.
- Both spouses’ parents and all dependent physically challenged family members are included.
- The West Bengal government bears the entire premium cost, and beneficiaries do not pay any premium.
- Each family receives an online Swasthya Sathi smart card containing family details, photos, biometrics, address, and a 24×7 call support service is available.
Eligibility Criteria For Swasthya Sathi Scheme
To apply for the Cashless Health Scheme in West Bengal, applicants must meet these criteria:
- Be a permanent resident of West Bengal state.
- The smart card will be issued to female candidates in the family.
- Applicants must not be enrolled in any other government healthcare scheme.
Key Functionalities
This health scheme offers comprehensive benefits to its beneficiaries, ensuring easy access to healthcare services. Here’s a simplified overview of its key features:
- Hospitals: Over 1500 hospitals are part of the scheme, and beneficiaries can choose any hospital. The list of hospitals is regularly updated and available publicly.
- Claim Settlement: Claims are settled within 30 days, with interest paid for delays, as per the agreement.
- Health Records: Patients’ e-health records are securely stored and accessible through login credentials.
- Monthly Reports: Monthly analytical reports are proactively disclosed to the public.
- Grievance Resolution: An online grievance monitoring mechanism allows stakeholders to post their grievances.
- Interactive Website: An interactive website provides information on eligibility, enrollment, and general queries.
- Pre Authorization: All medical treatments are pre-authorized within 24 hours.
- Hospital Grading: Hospitals are graded transparently based on facilities and services, verified by insurance companies and third-party administrators.
- Cashless Hospitalization: Tertiary treatment expenses are fully covered.
- Transport Allowance: Patients receive a transport allowance upon discharge, with additional allowances for state government hospital admissions.
- Support Channels: Toll-free call center, social media platforms, mobile app, and SMS alerts offer various support channels for beneficiaries.
- Package Rates: There are 2092 packages available, with dynamic rates rationalized by a package selection committee.
- Coverage of Pre-existing Diseases: All pre-existing diseases and conditions are covered from day one.
- Family Coverage: No cap on family size; the scheme covers parents from both sides.
- No Contribution: Beneficiaries do not need to contribute; the government of West Bengal bears all costs.
- IT Platform: The system operates on a hassle-free cloud-based IT platform, ensuring efficiency and accessibility.
How To Apply For Swasthya Sathi Scheme Online 2024?
To apply for the Swasthya Sathi scheme online, follow these simple steps:
- Visit the official Swasthya Sathi website https://swasthyasathi.gov.in/.
- Click on the “Apply Online” option on the homepage.
- Fill in the necessary information on the new page.
- Attach all the required documents.
- Click “Submit” to complete your online application.
That’s it! Following these steps allows you to apply online for the Swasthya Sathi scheme.
Conclusion
The Swasthya Sathi Scheme in 2024 stands as a beacon of accessible healthcare in West Bengal. With a user-friendly online application process and a wide array of benefits, it ensures comprehensive coverage for families without any financial burden. The scheme’s all-encompassing approach, covering pre-existing conditions, transparent hospital grading, and efficient digital platforms, reflects the government’s commitment to public welfare. By simplifying access to medical services, the Swasthya Sathi Scheme promotes health, relieves financial stress, and paves the way for a healthier, happier society in West Bengal.
FAQ’s
What is the Swasthya Sathi Scheme?
The Swasthya Sathi Scheme is a comprehensive healthcare initiative in West Bengal, providing accessible and affordable medical services to residents.
How can I apply for a Swasthya Sathi Card?
You can apply for a Swasthya Sathi Card by visiting the official website, filling out the online application form, and attaching the required documents.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Swasthya Sathi Scheme?
There is no cap on family size, and all residents of West Bengal are eligible, including parents from both sides of the family. There is no contribution required from beneficiaries.
What benefits does the Swasthya Sathi Scheme offer?
The scheme covers pre-existing diseases, offers cashless hospitalization for tertiary treatments, provides transport allowances, and includes transparent hospital grading. It also ensures timely claim settlements and maintains e-health records.
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