Government Launches PM RAHAT Scheme for Road Accident Victims
In a significant move to address India's high road fatality rate, the government has officially launched the PM RAHAT scheme, which stands for Road Accident Victim Hospitalization and Assured Treatment. This initiative is specifically designed to offer cashless treatment for individuals injured in road accidents across the country.
Tackling the Golden Hour Challenge
India experiences a staggering number of road fatalities annually, with statistics indicating that nearly 50 percent of these deaths could be prevented if victims receive timely medical attention within the first hour after an accident, commonly known as the Golden Hour. The PM RAHAT scheme aims to bridge this critical gap by ensuring swift hospital access and robust financial support, thereby potentially saving thousands of lives each year.
Key Details of the PM RAHAT Scheme
Under this comprehensive scheme, every eligible road accident victim, regardless of the road category, will be entitled to cashless treatment coverage of up to Rs 1.5 lakh. The coverage is available for a period of seven days from the date of the accident, with specific provisions based on the severity of the injury:
- In non-life-threatening cases, stabilization treatment will be provided for up to 24 hours.
- For life-threatening situations, this treatment window extends to 48 hours.
To ensure proper verification, police authentication is required through an integrated digital system within 24 hours for non-life-threatening cases and 48 hours for life-threatening cases.
How to Avail the PM RAHAT Scheme
The scheme is seamlessly linked with the Emergency Response Support System 112 helpline to expedite the process. In the event of an accident, victims, Good Samaritans (referred to as Rah Veer), or any bystander can dial 112 to:
- Locate the nearest designated hospital.
- Request immediate ambulance support.
Hospitals will be reimbursed through the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund, with funding sources varying based on the circumstances:
- If the offending vehicle is insured, payments will come from contributions made by general insurance companies.
- In cases involving uninsured vehicles or hit-and-run incidents, the cost will be covered through budgetary allocations by the Government of India.
Once claims are approved by the State Health Agency, they will be settled within 10 days, providing hospitals with clear financial predictability and reducing administrative delays.
Grievance Redressal Mechanism
To address any complaints or disputes, the scheme includes a structured grievance redressal system. A Grievance Redressal Officer, nominated by the District Road Safety Committee, will handle cases at the district level. This committee is chaired by the District Collector, District Magistrate, or Deputy Commissioner, ensuring local oversight and accountability.
The PM RAHAT scheme represents a proactive step towards enhancing road safety and emergency healthcare in India, leveraging technology and financial mechanisms to protect citizens during critical moments.
