How to Apply for an Ayushman Bharat Golden Card?

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Health holds importance in our lives. Everyone deserves access to top-notch healthcare services as a basic human right. However, the steep expenses associated with care can place a financial burden on individuals and families, particularly those belonging to less affluent communities. In response to this issue, the Government of India introduced the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), also known as the Ayushman Bharat Golden Card scheme, to offer affordable healthcare services to those in need.

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The Ayushman Bharat Golden Card grants eligible beneficiaries seamless and paperless access to healthcare services. This program provides coverage of up to 5 lakh rupees per family annually for secondary and tertiary care hospitalisations. Each beneficiary receives a card that acts as their unique identification for accessing benefits under this scheme.

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What are the Features of the Ayushman Bharat Golden Card?

The Ayushman Bharat Golden Card offers a variety of benefits that make it a comprehensive healthcare solution for recipients. Some key features include:

• Treatment without cash or paperwork: Recipients can receive treatment without the need for payment or extensive paperwork at any approved hospital in India.
• Coverage for existing conditions: The program covers existing conditions, ensuring that individuals with chronic illnesses can get treatment without financial barriers.
• Mobility: The golden card is portable, allowing recipients to access healthcare services at any approved hospital regardless of their location in India.
• Includes Family Coverage: The program offers coverage for up to five family members, including the head of the family, spouse and three dependents.
• Emphasis on care: The program also promotes lifestyle habits and regular checkups to focus on preventive care.

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What are the Eligibility Criteria for the Ayushman Bharat Golden Card?

To qualify for the Ayushman Bharat Golden Card, individuals need to meet the following requirements:

1. Socio status: The program aims to assist those from disadvantaged backgrounds, including families identified in the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) database under the golden card eligibility guidelines.
2. Ration card holders: Families with state government-issued ration cards are eligible for participation in the program.
3. RSBY beneficiaries: Individuals already benefiting from the Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) can transition to the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
4. Other criteria: States may establish eligibility criteria to align with their specific needs.

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Who is Excluded from the Ayushman Bharat Yojana?

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While the Ayushman Bharat Golden Card aims to offer healthcare access to a portion of the population, some groups are excluded. Individuals and families falling under the categories listed below are not qualified for the PM-JAY Golden Card:

1. Government employees at both state levels: These employees are not covered by this scheme as they have their own healthcare programs.
2. High-income individuals: Those in income brackets, as determined by state governments, do not qualify for this program.
3. Individuals with health insurance: People who already have health insurance from sources like employer-provided plans or private policies are ineligible for the Ayushman Bharat Golden Card.

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Steps to Apply for the Ayushman Bharat Golden Card?

To apply for the Ayushman Golden Card online, you can easily complete the application process online or offline. Here's how you can do it:

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Online Application Steps:

Step 1: Go to the website of Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), 

Step 2: Select your state from the menu in the "How to Apply" section.

Step 3: Follow the state website instructions to fill out the application form.

Step 4: Upload documents like identification, proof of address, and income details.

Step 5: Submit your completed application form online.

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Offline Application Steps:

Step 1: Find a Common Service Center (CSC) or an enrollment centre in your locality.

Step 2: Provide required documents such as ID proof, address proof, income details and a recent photo.

Step 3: The enrollment centre will assist you in completing and submitting the application form on your behalf.

Step 4: Once your application is submitted successfully, you'll receive an acknowledgement and an estimated timeline for receiving the Ayushman Bharat Golden Card.

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Activating and Using Your Ayushman Bharat Golden Card

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Once you get your Ayushman Bharat Golden Card, make sure to activate it before using it for healthcare services. Follow these steps to activate and use your card:

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1. Activation: Head to the empanelled hospital or Common Service Center (CSC) with your card and a valid ID. Your card will be. You'll receive a confirmation message or SMS. You can also download the Golden Card.
2. Accessing healthcare services: Once activated, you can go to any hospital in India. Show your golden card at the help desk or registration counter.
3. Cashless treatment: Upon confirming your eligibility, you can receive cashless treatment for procedures covered by the scheme.
4. Follow-up care: If needed, the scheme includes follow-up care and consultations related to your treatment condition.

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Remember, the Ayushman Bharat Golden Card works at empanelled hospitals and healthcare facilities. So, it's wise to check the list of hospitals in your area before seeking treatment.

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FAQs

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1. What is the difference between the Ayushman Card and the Golden Card?

The Ayushman card (Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana) is a national scheme, while the Golden Card is a state-specific healthcare scheme. However, they both aim to provide healthcare benefits to eligible beneficiaries.

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2. How do you download the Ayushman Bharat Golden Card?

You cannot download the Ayushman Bharat Golden Card directly. It is a physical card issued to eligible beneficiaries after verification by the respective state authorities. You need to apply through the prescribed process in your state.

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3. How do I check the status of my Golden Health Card application?

To check the status of your Golden Health Card application, you should contact the designated authorities or visit the official website of the respective state's Golden Card scheme and provide your application details.

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4. What should I do if my Golden Health Card application is rejected?

If your Golden Health Card application is rejected, review the reasons for rejection carefully. You may have the option to appeal the decision or reapply after addressing any discrepancies or missing information as per the state authorities' guidelines.

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5. How long is the Golden Health Card valid, and how can I renew it?

The validity period of the Golden Health Card varies across states, but it generally needs periodic renewal. To renew your card, follow the renewal process outlined by your state authorities, which may involve submitting updated documentation and undergoing verification.

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