Odisha to provide free cashless treatment up to Rs 5 lakh for 3.5 crore people

Bhubaneswar: Around 70 lakh families covering 3.5 crore people in Odisha will be provided cashless healthcare assistance up to Rs 5 lakh per family annually at all government hospitals in State under 'Biju Swasthya Kalyana Yojana' announced by Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik today.

"Each and everyone visiting any Government health institution from District to sub-centre level will be provided all health services free of cost," said Patnaik adding that the cashless healthcare assistance is part of his government's commitment towards universal health coverage and will cover more than 70 lakh families in the State.

The scheme is not insurance, but an assurance for better healthcare to the people, said Patnaik.

Besides, Rs 500 will be provided to all pregnant women and infant admitted to government hospitals to meet pick-up and drop expenses, he added.

"Drop back assistance of Rs 500 will be provided to all pregnant women and infant who visit public health facilities," the Chief Minister said adding that this will benefit over 6.5 lakh pregnant women and children.

"The 'Biju Swasthya Kalyana Yojana' will be implemented from August 15. More than 70 lakh families will be provided Rs 5 lakh healthcare assistance annually and avail free treatment at all government hospitals. All the expenses will be borne by the State goverment," said Health Minister Pratap Jena.