The Punjab government has significantly expanded access to healthcare under the Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana by allowing medical procedures previously restricted to government hospitals to be performed at its 550 empanelled private hospitals. This strategic move aims to improve access to specialised treatment for beneficiaries while easing the patient load on government healthcare institutions.
Health Minister's Statement
Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh stated that the decision will enhance accessibility, particularly in districts where specialised services are scarce or government facilities are overwhelmed with patients. He noted, "This is expected to reduce pressure on major government facilities, shorten waiting times, and improve access to timely care."
Scope of Procedures
The newly approved procedures cover a wide range of medical specialties, enabling patients to receive treatment closer to home instead of travelling long distances to overcrowded tertiary hospitals. In ear, nose, and throat (ENT) care, patients can now undergo fracture setting of the nasal bone and adenoidectomy at empanelled private hospitals. These common procedures often require timely intervention, especially among children and accident victims.
General surgery has seen one of the largest expansions. Procedures such as hydrocele operations, incision and drainage of abscesses, appendicectomy, and both open and laparoscopic gall bladder surgeries are now included in the scheme for private hospitals.
Women's Healthcare Enhancements
Women's healthcare has received considerable attention. The expanded list includes medical termination of pregnancy beyond 12 weeks, hysterotomy, hospitalisation for antenatal complications, and examination under anaesthesia for minor girls, unmarried sexually inactive women, and survivors of sexual abuse. These additions will help ensure more timely and accessible care for vulnerable patients.
Eye Care and Orthopaedics
Eye care and orthopaedic services have also been strengthened. Ophthalmology procedures such as pterygium excision and entropion correction can now be performed at empanelled private hospitals. Orthopaedic patients will benefit from access to surgeries involving tendon release, treatment of small-joint injuries, and corrective operations for ankle fractures. Package rates for the newly approved procedures range from Rs 2,000 to Rs 27,800.
Expansion of Eligibility
The announcement coincides with another noteworthy expansion of the scheme. People living alone, including senior citizens, widows, and others residing independently, are now eligible for coverage. Previously, the universal health insurance programme was limited to families with at least two members. The benefit has also been extended to parents whose children are settled abroad.
Applicants must provide valid Punjab Aadhaar and voter identity cards, while those below 18 years must furnish birth certificates. Independent residents seeking enrolment must submit a declaration that will be verified by local elected representatives before approval.
Current Coverage
According to a report from the State Health Agency (SHA), nearly 65 lakh families are already covered under the scheme. Currently, 824 hospitals, including government, central government, and empanelled private institutions, are providing treatment. The scheme covers nearly 2,300 diseases and medical procedures.
