Bihar Legislators Unite in Demand for Cashless Medical Treatment System
In a significant development in Patna, members of the Bihar Legislative Council, representing various political parties, came together on Monday to demand the implementation of a cashless medical treatment system for legislators and state government employees. The unified call highlights growing frustration with the existing reimbursement-based mechanism, which has been criticized for causing financial hardship and administrative delays.
Raising the Issue of Healthcare Accessibility
The matter was formally brought before the council by MLC Syed Faisal Ali through a short notice question. Ali pointed out that unlike many other states in India, members of Bihar's legislative council and assembly, along with state government employees, currently lack access to cashless medical facilities. This absence forces individuals to pay upfront for medical expenses and navigate a cumbersome reimbursement process later.
Voices from the Council Highlight Systemic Problems
Several council members shared personal experiences to underscore the urgency of the issue. MLC Nawal Kishore Yadav highlighted persistent delays in reimbursement payments and the slow movement of files within the bureaucracy, which exacerbates financial strain during medical emergencies.
Other members, including Sunil Kumar Singh, Ajay Kumar, and Sanjeev Kumar, reported that they often do not receive the full amount spent on treatment. A significant portion of their expenses is deducted during the reimbursement process, leaving them to bear unexpected out-of-pocket costs.
Seeking Clarity and Swift Resolution
MLC Rajvardhan Azad directly questioned the government about any obstacles preventing the implementation of a cashless facility. He emphasized that the matter should be resolved without unnecessary delay, suggesting that administrative hurdles could be overcome with proper planning and commitment.
Adding another layer to the discussion, Chairperson Awadhesh Narain Singh raised concerns about interest charges imposed by hospitals when medical bills remain unpaid. He inquired whether the government covers such additional costs, pointing to potential financial liabilities under the current system.
Government Response and Future Steps
In response to the legislators' demands, Health Minister Mangal Pandey addressed the council, acknowledging the issue and providing insights into the government's position. Pandey stated that the matter is currently under active discussion with the finance department, as it involves significant financial implications and resource allocation.
He explained that a proper policy framework needs to be developed and the entire process streamlined. This includes determining whether the cashless system will be based on an insurance model or an assurance model, which requires careful consideration to ensure sustainability and efficiency.
"The government is discussing the matter and we will come up with the cashless system," Pandey assured the House, offering a commitment to move forward with the proposal.
Addressing Specific Concerns
On the issue of deductions during reimbursement, Pandey clarified that payments are made according to the rates specified under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS). This standardization is intended to control costs but often results in partial reimbursements for legislators and employees.
Regarding interest charges on unpaid hospital bills, the health minister stated that the government does not cover such expenses. He emphasized that the department's responsibility is limited to covering only the direct medical expenses, leaving any additional costs, including interest, to be managed by the individuals or through other means.
Broader Implications for Healthcare in Bihar
The demand for a cashless medical treatment system reflects a broader push for improved healthcare accessibility and financial protection for public servants in Bihar. If implemented, such a system could alleviate the burden of upfront payments and reduce administrative inefficiencies, setting a precedent for other states to follow.
As discussions continue between the health and finance departments, stakeholders await concrete steps toward policy formulation. The outcome of these deliberations will be closely watched, as it has the potential to transform healthcare benefits for thousands of legislators and government employees across the state.
