Medical expenses often become a major financial burden in old age. To help senior citizens get quality healthcare without worrying about hospital bills, the Central Government has expanded the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) and introduced the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card.
Under this scheme, every eligible senior citizen aged 70 years or above can receive cashless treatment worth up to ₹5 lakh every year at approved hospitals.
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Who Can Get the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card?
One of the biggest changes in this scheme is that there is no income limit. Earlier, Ayushman Bharat benefits were mainly available to economically weaker families.
Now, every Indian citizen aged 70 years or above can apply, regardless of their financial status.
Eligible beneficiaries can get cashless treatment of up to ₹5 lakh per year at empanelled government and private hospitals without paying money upfront.
Can People With Other Health Insurance Apply?
Yes. Senior citizens who already have an Ayushman Bharat card will receive a separate Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card under the expanded scheme.
Those covered under CGHS, ECHS, or private health insurance can also apply. However, they should check the claim rules and terms applicable to their existing health coverage before using the benefits.
How to Apply for the Card
Applying for the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card is simple and requires minimal paperwork. An Aadhaar card is needed for age verification and identity proof.
Eligible senior citizens can register from home through the Ayushman Bharat mobile app.
They can also visit their nearest Common Service Centre (CSC) or any authorized enrollment centre for biometric verification. After the verification is completed, the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card is issued.
Important Things to Check Before Hospital Treatment
Before visiting a hospital, make sure it is empanelled under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. The complete list of approved hospitals is available on the official PMJAY website.
While getting admitted, carry both your Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card and Aadhaar card to ensure a smooth admission process.
Also remember that the scheme covers only those diseases, surgeries, and medical procedures that are included under the official PMJAY treatment package.