Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:-

(a)        whether it is a fact that Central Government pensioners, other than those of Defence and Railways, living in areas not covered by C.G.H.S. are without any healthcare facilities;

(b)        if so, whether Government propose to formulate a scheme to provide them adequate health care as has recently been done in the case of ex-servicemen; and

(c)        if so, by when that is likely to be done and if not, the reasons therefor?

ANSWER

THE MINISTER OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE
(SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)

(a)        Central Government pensioners living in non-CGHS areas have an option to have a CGHS Card made in the nearest CGHS covered city by paying the appropriate contribution for availing I.P.D facilities.  In addition, they are entitled to get Rs. 100/- per month as fixed medical allowance for OPD expenses.

(b) & (c):          The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has floated an “Expression of Interest” from health Insurance agencies and insurance consultants for extending health care facilities to Central Government pensioners not covered by the CGUs.  Considering the enormity of the work involved, it is not possible to fix a time limit for introduction of the Scheme.