Jammu, June 14, 2024: The Jammu and Kashmir State Health Agency (SHA) has firmly rebutted recent reports published in the Daily Excelsior, which alleged that hospitals in Jammu have halted new admissions under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. These reports cited an ongoing conflict between the SHA and the concerned insurance company, resulting in delayed payments to empanelled private hospitals.
In a communique issued today, the SHA clarified that private empanelled hospitals remain pivotal in delivering free treatment to beneficiaries under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. Over the past two years, payments to these hospitals have been made regularly in accordance with the scheme’s guidelines, without any interruptions. The current delays are attributed to legal proceedings involving IFFCO-TOKIO General Insurance Company. The insurer attempted to prematurely exit a contract, initially set to expire in March 2025, starting March 15, 2024.
The Jammu and Kashmir government is acutely aware of the financial strain these delays have imposed on healthcare partners due to non-payment from IFFCO-TOKIO. Empanelled private hospitals have sought interim relief from the Hon’ble High Court and are fully engaged in the legal matter.
“The Government of Jammu and Kashmir has engaged extensively with these healthcare providers, assuring them of a timely resolution to the payment issues. The SHA guarantees that all pending payments will be cleared as swiftly as possible,” the communique stated.
The SHA expressed its heartfelt gratitude to the private empanelled hospitals and dialysis centers for their unwavering support and commitment to the scheme, despite not receiving payments since March 15, 2024. The SHA appealed to all empanelled hospitals to continue treating patients under the scheme, emphasizing their role as responsible partners.
The agency deeply regrets the inconvenience caused to the empanelled hospitals and appreciates their patience and understanding during this challenging period. It reassured its commitment to supporting these hospitals and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of healthcare services to beneficiaries across Jammu and Kashmir.
The SHA urged all empanelled hospitals and dialysis centers to continue their invaluable services to the public, highlighting the critical importance of patient care and public well-being. The health and well-being of J&K citizens remain the top priority, and the SHA is dedicated to upholding the objectives of the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana/SEHAT.
The government of Jammu and Kashmir affirmed that all necessary steps will be taken to ensure patients receive free treatment under the scheme without interruption. Beneficiaries are advised to call the toll-free number 14555 or the call center at 104 for any assistance related to their treatment under the scheme.