OPD Rate Hike

According to a formal announcement, the Union Health Ministry has chosen to modify the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) package rates for all beneficiaries and has also made the referral procedure under it simpler for the convenience of the staff.

OPD rates increased from Rs. 150 to Rs. 350, while the IPD consultation price increased by Rs. 50 to Rs. 350. ICU services, which include lodging for all ward rights, have been set at Rs 5,400.

The cost of hospital rooms was also changed. A semi-private ward’s charge has climbed from Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,000, while a private room’s rate has gone from Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,500. The rent for a general room has been set at Rs 1500 from Rs 1,000 previously.

The decision will result in an increase in spending for the government of between Rs 240 crore and Rs 300 crore. In response to stakeholder requests and taking into account the rise in the price of various healthcare components, the ministry has reportedly recommended to initially altering the CGHS package pricing of consultation fees, ICU charges, and room rent.

The CGHS referral procedure has also been made simpler.

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Previously, the CGHS beneficiary had to physically visit the CGHS Wellness Centre in order to receive a hospital referral. A CGHS beneficiary can now send a representative and the necessary paperwork to the wellness centre to request a hospital referral.

After reviewing the paperwork, a medical officer can refer the recipient to a hospital. A video call can also be used to recommend a CGHS beneficiary.

For the approximately 42 lakh Central government employees, pensioners, and other beneficiary categories registered in the program, as well as their dependents, CGHS serves as the nodal healthcare provider.

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