Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Aug 4: The State Health Agency (SHA) J&K today urged people to call at 104 or raise complaints through available channels in case of denial of treatment under the Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY and AB PM-JAY SEHAT schemes.
SHA, while responding to a case of alleged denial of services under the scheme by certain private hospitals, issued a clarification to reassure beneficiaries of their rights and the support available to them.
If any empanelled private or public hospital refuses to provide treatment under the scheme, beneficiaries are advised to immediately report the issue,” SHA stated.
“Complaints can be registered by calling the toll-free helpline 104 for direct assistance and quick action.”
SHA stated that hospitals are not permitted to alter or overcharge for these packages, ensuring transparency and uniform quality of care.
As per the scheme guidelines, no empanelled hospital is allowed to deny treatment or demand payment for services covered under the scheme, it stated.
“Any such act whether in the form of service denial or asking for money constitutes a serious violation. Hospitals found guilty are liable to face strict action, including penalties, suspension, or permanent de-empanelment from the scheme.”
The Health authority, which is governing the implementation of Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY in J&K, stressed that it has established a robust and transparent grievance redressal mechanism to ensure that no eligible beneficiary is denied treatment.
Additionally, it noted that grievances can be submitted online through the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS), Central Grievance Redressal and Management System (CGRMS), or the JK Samadhan Portal.
“If any hospital is found guilty of denying treatment or violating scheme guidelines, strict action is taken, including imposition of penalties, temporary suspension, and even permanent de-empanelment from the scheme,” SHA said.
Further, it has been stated that a dedicated Grievance Cell at SHA monitors and resolves complaints on a priority basis. Additionally, the State Anti-Fraud Unit (SAFU) conducts regular follow-up calls with patients to verify whether they received the entitled cashless treatment.
“It is important to note that all treatment packages under the Ayushman Bharat scheme are scientifically designed and standardized by expert committees under the National Health Authority (NHA),” it added.
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