APCC Chief YS Sharmila Denounces Andhra's Universal Health Coverage as 'Complete Sham'
In a scathing critique, Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) chief YS Sharmila has labeled the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) scheme proposed by the TDP-led NDA state government as a "complete sham". She alleges that the model is a fraudulent initiative designed to undermine and weaken the flagship Aarogyashri scheme, which provides free healthcare to underprivileged individuals at private hospitals.
Questioning the Rationale Behind Private Insurance
In a press statement issued on Sunday, Sharmila raised serious concerns about the UHC's framework. She questioned the logic of limiting health insurance coverage to Rs 2.5 lakh while leaving additional expenses to be covered by a trust. "When several states that experimented with private insurance models are reverting to the trust-based system, what is the intention behind introducing private insurance in AP, where Aarogyasri is being implemented successfully under the trust model?" she asked, highlighting a trend away from private insurance in other regions.
Allegations of Fund Diversion to Private Companies
Sharmila further accused the government of attempting to divert public funds to private insurance companies. She pointed out a stark contrast in financial priorities: "A government that hesitates to release Rs 4,000 crore annually towards Aarogyasri payments is now ready to mobilise thousands of crores in advance for insurance companies. Where will these funds come from?" This statement underscores her claim that the move could strain public resources while benefiting corporate entities.
Demands to Protect Aarogyasri and Release Pending Dues
Accusing the government of deliberately weakening Aarogyasri, Sharmila stated that the scheme is being turned into an "unhealthy scheme" through policy changes. She made two key demands:
- Immediate withdrawal of the decision to link Aarogyasri with private insurance, advocating for its continuation under the existing trust model.
- Release of Rs 3,000 crore in pending dues to hospitals under Aarogyasri, ensuring healthcare providers are compensated promptly.
Her demands aim to safeguard the integrity of Aarogyasri, which has been a cornerstone of healthcare access for the underprivileged in Andhra Pradesh, and to address financial bottlenecks that could disrupt medical services.
