Srinagar, July 16: Jammu and Kashmir has made major strides in public healthcare, with 95 percent of families now covered under the Ayushman Bharat–PMJAY Golden Card scheme. Since its launch in December 2018, over 17 lakh free treatments worth ₹3,120 crore have been provided across empanelled hospitals.
The figures were shared by Dr.WaseemAkram, Operations Manager at the State Health Agency (SHA), during the “Varta” workshop organised by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Srinagar.
Dr Akram said that a total of 234 hospitals, including both public and private institutions, are currently empanelled within J&K. The scheme has also extended its reach beyond the Union Territory, with over 13,000 treatments worth Rs 124 crore provided at hospitals outside J&K for patients referred to specialised care centres.
“This year alone, 95,000 patients have availed free treatment under the scheme, reflecting growing trust and public awareness,” Dr.Akram said.
Despite its success, the scheme has faced challenges, including instances of fraudulent claims. Some hospitals were found billing for treatments never provided or denying services due to so-called delays in reimbursement. In response, the administration has imposed penalties worth ₹2 crore and recovered ₹5 crore through audits and investigations.
“More than 15 doctors were barred from private practice as part of disciplinary action,” Dr.Akram said. To address concerns of reimbursement delays and streamline claim settlements, the government has transitioned the scheme from an insurance-based model to a trust-based model. This shift aims to ensure faster claim resolution and reduce dependency on third-party insurance providers. Dr.Akram said this transition would significantly improve the operational efficiency of the scheme and rebuild confidence among participating hospitals.
The State Health Agency has also established a robust grievance redressal mechanism, allowing beneficiaries and institutions to report service denial, billing issues or frauds for immediate action.
The Golden Card scheme, launched under the Ayushman Bharat–PMJAY initiative, continues to evolve as one of the most impactful public health programs in the region. With greater coverage, tighter oversight, and proactive governance, Jammu and Kashmir is setting an example in universal, accountable and citizen-focused healthcare delivery. Dr Akram said ‘Gaon, GaonAbhiyan and Back to Village programmes helped achieve more targets and connect more families with the scheme.
Highlights:
Achieves 95% coverage under Golden Card Scheme
Over Rs 3,120 Cr treatments delivered so far
Crackdown on healthcare frauds; Rs 5 Cr recovered
234 public and private hospitals empanelled for scheme
More than 15 doctors face action for misconduct
