The Maharashtra government recently made a significant move to enhance public health care. The state Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, approved an expansion of two major health insurance programs: the Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana (MJPJAY) and the Ayushman Bharat–Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY). Now, the coverage will increase from 1,356 to 2,399 diseases and medical procedures.
This expansion is aimed at making treatment accessible for almost all major illnesses, especially for low-income families. With the addition of four more specialties, the total will rise from 34 to 38, broadening the scope of services available.
A government committee made these recommendations after reviewing current treatments, suggesting that Maharashtra align its coverage with national standards. The outcome is expected to alleviate financial stress for countless families who depend on public health services.
Out of the total treatments, 223 will be reserved solely for government hospitals. This strategy not only encourages the use of public facilities but also strengthens the state’s healthcare system.
One key change is that hospitals will now be reimbursed based on the National Health Authority’s base package rates. Performance-based incentives will be introduced to reward better service quality.
The Cabinet has also empowered the regulatory council to oversee all policy decisions and to make necessary revisions over time. This approach aims to ensure that all treatments remain relevant and effective for the public’s needs.
In addition to the health insurance expansion, the government is creating a dedicated Urban Health Commissionerate. This new body will address the fragmented management of healthcare in urban areas, unifying efforts for better access and efficiency. The urban population in Maharashtra is around 50%, making this initiative crucial for many.
To oversee this new setup, an IAS officer will be appointed as the Commissioner of Urban Health. This role will involve coordinating with various departments to streamline healthcare delivery in city settings.
Furthermore, there is a plan to hire medical officers from the Public Health Department to work in municipal corporations, ensuring consistent service across urban areas. Existing practices for field-level workers who help distribute Ayushman cards will also be updated, increasing their honorarium to incentivize better outreach.
Lastly, long-serving contractual staff under the National Health Mission will have a chance to transition to regular posts, providing job stability to healthcare workers who play a vital role in both rural and urban settings.
These decisions reflect a commitment to improving healthcare accessibility in Maharashtra. They aim to empower healthcare workers, improve urban health management, and, most importantly, provide better services to those who need it the most.
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Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana, maharashtra cabinet, National Health Authority, Maharashtra free health cover MPJAY, Ayushman Bharat, Indian Express
