Sehat Sahulat Card Programme: Important announcement made by Punjab government
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The Punjab government has taken significant steps to restore free healthcare services through the Sehat Sahulat Card program. A directive issued by the Punjab Health Initiative Management Company (PHIMC) has brought about a pivotal change by eliminating the Proxy Means Test (PMT) score requirement of 44, previously obligatory for obtaining Sehat Sahulat Cards. PMT serves as a method commonly used to identify individuals in dire need of assistance in developing countries.
Under this new healthcare policy, every individual now has the opportunity to access essential medical and surgical treatments by making a 30 percent payment at private empanelled hospitals participating in the Sehat Sahulat Programme in Punjab. This transformation is particularly significant as it ensures that individuals facing emergencies, life-threatening illnesses, and specific medical conditions such as oncology, dialysis, thalassemia, orthopedic/neurological trauma cases, and general medical cases will receive free treatment from the participating private hospitals.
Moreover, senior citizens aged 65 and above will also be entitled to free treatment at these private hospitals, with the exception of cardiology-related treatments.
The decision to eliminate the Proxy Means Test target score of 44 is noteworthy, as it simplifies the process for individuals to access the Sehat Sahulat Card. Previously, obtaining a PMT target score of 44 was a prerequisite for eligibility. Proxy Means Testing (PMT) is a widely used method to identify and support those in poverty in developing countries.
Notably, the new policy will be financially facilitated through State Life Insurance, as confirmed by the PHIMC. This initiative signifies a substantial advancement in healthcare accessibility for the people of Punjab, providing them with the assurance of medical treatment during times of need and critical health conditions.
