Shimla, Aug 3,
The Himachal Pradesh Government has announced substantial changes to the “Mukhya Mantri Himachal Health Care Scheme- HIMCARE,” originally launched by the former administration led by Jai Ram Thakur to offer free healthcare. According to the latest notification, the empanelment of private hospitals under this scheme will be revoked starting September 1, 2024. Additionally, all serving and retired government officials will no longer be eligible for HIMCARE with immediate effect.
Health Minister Dhani Ram Shandil explained that the decision to wind down the HIMCARE scheme stems from multiple issues leading to fund leakage. Reports indicate that private health institutions failed to provide free healthcare services as required under HIMCARE.
Also read:PGIMER Chandigarh partners with HIMCARE for cashless treatment
Concurrently, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) is conducting searches in the state regarding the misuse of the Ayushman Bharat PM healthcare scheme. The state vigilance department has also booked several individuals following the discovery of 387 fake health cards in Una.
Minister Shandil emphasized that the decision to terminate the HIMCARE scheme was driven by the misuse of public funds and inherent flaws within the program. He assured that healthcare benefits would continue for non-employees and retirees, as state government employees are already covered under a separate healthcare scheme.
A notification regarding these changes was issued by health secretary M. Sudha Devi on July 31, 2024.
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