In a significant move to improve healthcare access, the Maharashtra prison department has announced the extension of comprehensive health insurance coverage to all inmates across state jails. The initiative, operating under the central and state Ayushman Bharat schemes, places special emphasis on providing timely and cashless medical treatment for elderly and vulnerable prisoners.
Special Enrollment Drive for Prisoners
Following a directive issued by Additional Director General of Prisons Suhas Warke, the department launched a special enrollment drive on December 17. This drive is set to continue until the end of the month. Jail authorities have been instructed to identify and register all eligible inmates within this timeframe to ensure uniform implementation and prevent unnecessary delays.
The coverage is bifurcated based on the prisoner's permanent residence. Inmates residing in areas under municipal corporations or councils within Maharashtra will be covered under the state's Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana (JPJAY). Eligible prisoners will receive Ayushman health cards under this programme. Conversely, those whose permanent residence is outside Maharashtra will be enrolled under the centrally implemented Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY).
Streamlining Healthcare Access Behind Bars
The process is designed to be seamless. Arogya Mitras are responsible for verifying documents, completing enrollment formalities, and issuing the health cards directly within prison premises. This system enables beneficiaries to access cashless treatment at empanelled hospitals for secondary and tertiary care, including hospitalisation and surgeries.
A prison department official stated that this initiative is expected to streamline access to advanced medical care for inmates. To ensure no one is left out, jail authorities, district administrations, and public health officials will jointly verify residency status and complete the enrollment process on-site. The department has directed officials to monitor the process closely to ensure no eligible inmate is excluded due to procedural lapses.
Benefits Extend to Staff and Elderly Inmates
In a move to boost overall awareness, the prison department has also encouraged jail staff to enrol their eligible family members under the scheme. This aims to widen coverage among prison department personnel as well.
The directive carries a special focus on inmates aged 70 and above, aiming to provide robust healthcare support for the elderly prison population. This initiative is anticipated to significantly reduce treatment delays and improve healthcare outcomes for all prisoners, particularly senior citizens who are more vulnerable.
