Haryana Health Secretary Orders Third-Party Audits to Strengthen Ayushman Bharat Implementation
In a significant move to enhance transparency and efficiency, Sumita Misra, Additional Chief Secretary of Health and Family Welfare for Haryana, has issued strict directives for the management of audit and claims processing under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana and the state's CHIRAYU scheme. During a high-level review meeting held in Chandigarh on Monday, Misra emphasized that all audit and claims activities must be handled exclusively through a third-party administrator (TPA) via the Haryana Medical Services Corporation Ltd (HMSCL).
Mandatory Audits to Prevent Fraud and Boost Claims
Misra announced that third-party audits will be made compulsory across all operations of the schemes to eliminate fraudulent activities and ensure integrity in the Ayushman Bharat process. She specifically instructed officials to develop a clear and actionable strategy aimed at significantly increasing claims from government medical colleges and public health institutions. This initiative is designed to maximize the utilization of healthcare benefits under these schemes.
Focus on Critical Treatments and Financial Assistance
In another crucial directive, Misra highlighted the importance of actively claiming chronic haemodialysis under Ayushman Bharat. This recurring treatment for kidney patients is critical, and her order ensures that individuals requiring regular dialysis receive full coverage without facing financial burdens. The review meeting revealed that Haryana has already settled nearly 28 lakh claims under Ayushman Bharat and CHIRAYU, with financial assistance exceeding Rs 3,900 crore disbursed to beneficiaries statewide.
Growing Awareness and Utilization of Healthcare Schemes
For the financial year 2025-26, claims in Haryana have surpassed Rs 1,500 crore, indicating a rising awareness and adoption of the schemes among citizens. The state boasts a robust network of 1,364 empanelled hospitals, comprising 777 private and 586 public institutions, which ensures cashless treatment is accessible to beneficiaries across Haryana.
Expanding Healthcare Coverage Beyond National Standards
Haryana has extended its healthcare safety net by implementing the CHIRAYU scheme and its extension, which covers families with an annual income of up to Rs 3 lakh. This goes beyond the national Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY framework, bringing a larger segment of the state's population under assured health coverage. To date, around 1.38 crore cards have been generated for eligible beneficiaries, facilitating their access to these vital healthcare services.
