In a major relief for thousands of Ayushman Bharat beneficiaries across Haryana, the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Haryana, has decided to defer its planned suspension of Ayushman Bharat services in private hospitals from June 5. The decision follows a positive meeting with the Chief Executive Officer of the Ayushman Bharat Haryana Health Protection Authority (AB-HHPA) and other officials on June 3. The matter was subsequently discussed in detail during a virtual meeting of IMA Haryana office-bearers and members on Thursday.
Continuation of Services in Patients' Interest
Dr Sunila Soni, President of IMA Haryana, stated, 'We have put our earlier decision to suspend Ayushman services in private hospitals from June 5 on hold after the positive assurances given by the CEO, AB-HHPA. The decision to continue services has been taken in good faith and in the larger interest of patients, particularly economically weaker sections who depend on private hospitals empanelled under Ayushman Bharat.'
She emphasised that the association received assurances regarding the expeditious processing and release of pending payments, streamlining of claim settlement mechanisms, prevention of unjustified deductions and adverse communications, and the establishment of a transparent and consultative framework to address issues faced by empanelled hospitals. 'We welcome the assurance of regular interactions with us to resolve operational concerns and improve the implementation of the scheme,' she added.
Conditions for Continued Participation
However, the association made it clear that the continuation of services would depend on the timely implementation of the commitments made by the CEO and other officials. Key conditions include prompt payment of dues and fair, transparent claim adjudication with proper justification for any deductions. Dr Soni urged all member hospitals to respond promptly to queries raised by Ayushman Bharat teams and ensure accuracy while uploading documents and submitting replies through the online portal.
The development brings respite to patients who rely on Ayushman Bharat for affordable healthcare, as private hospitals play a crucial role in the scheme's network. The IMA Haryana's decision underscores the importance of dialogue between healthcare providers and authorities to resolve operational challenges without disrupting patient care.
