Andhra Pradesh Cabinet Approves Universal Health Policy with ₹25 Lakh Coverage
The Andhra Pradesh cabinet has approved a universal health policy providing free medical treatment up to ₹25 lakh annually for all 1.63 crore families in the state. The new scheme integrates the central Ayushman Bharat program with the state's NTR Vaidya Seva, covering 3,257 medical procedures across 2,493 network hospitals. This major policy decision aims to provide comprehensive health insurance coverage to every family in the state, regardless of their economic status, significantly expanding public health access.
Unpacked:
Previous schemes like Dr. YSR Aarogyasri primarily targeted the poor, focusing on financial protection for vulnerable populations. The new policy expands coverage to all 1.63 crore families, regardless of economic status, integrates the central and state programs, and increases the annual coverage to ₹25 lakh, making it a more inclusive and comprehensive approach.
Challenges include regulating private hospitals, ensuring accountability and transparency, addressing potential misuse, and maintaining sufficient funding. Weak state capacity to enforce regulations and monitor quality, as well as systemic inefficiencies, have historically hindered similar reforms in India, making strong governance essential for success.
The integration streamlines access to a broader range of services, covering 3,257 procedures at 2,493 hospitals. Patients can access treatment at both public and private facilities, benefit from digital processing for transparency, and experience fewer financial barriers, improving access and quality of care for all families.
High out-of-pocket healthcare expenses have pushed many into poverty in Andhra Pradesh. Universal health coverage aims to provide financial protection, improve access to essential health services, reduce catastrophic spending, and address the state's significant burden of non-communicable diseases and other health challenges.