The Indian government has launched a significant initiative for senior citizens aged 70 and above. They can now get a special Ayushman Bharat health card, offering free medical treatment worth up to Rs 5 lakh annually. This card for seniors, known as the Ayushman Bharat Vay Vandana Card, aims to ease the healthcare burden on India’s elderly population.
This expanded provision under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) allows eligible seniors to receive cashless treatment. They can use this benefit at over 30,000 empanelled public and private hospitals across the country.
Benefits of the Ayushman Bharat Vay Vandana Card
- Annual health cover of Rs 5 lakh.
- Coverage for 1,961 medical procedures across 27 specialties.
- Includes all pre-existing illnesses from day one.
- Cashless treatment at over 30,000 empanelled hospitals, including 13,352 private facilities.
- Covers specialized procedures like hemodialysis, joint replacements, and cancer care.
How to Apply for the Ayushman Bharat Card for Seniors
The application process is simplified through the Ayushman App. Aadhaar-based e-KYC is mandatory for enrolment. The Aadhaar card is the only required document.
Follow these steps to apply:
- Download the Ayushman App.
- Log in as a beneficiary or operator.
- Enter captcha, mobile number, and complete authentication.
- Input OTP and captcha code, then click Login.
- Grant access to the device’s location.
- Enter the beneficiary’s information, including state and Aadhaar details.
- If no beneficiary is found, proceed with e-KYC, agree to the OTP.
- Provide a declaration and fill in the necessary fields.
- Enter the beneficiary’s mobile number and the OTP.
- Fill in all required details, including category and PIN code.
- Add family members’ information and proceed with submission.
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Upon successful e-KYC completion, you will receive approval and can download your Ayushman Vay Vandana Card. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring comprehensive healthcare for senior citizens.
