The government has changed the package rates for people associated with the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS). Under this, along with increasing the payment amount for room rent, the limit of OPD fees has also been increased.
Whereas, referral facility through video has been started for central government employees. Whereas, the limit of ICU expenditure of hospitals has also been increased.
Announcing the increase in OPD and IPD fees,
the Union Health Ministry has revised the CGHS package rates for all the beneficiaries of the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), while also simplifying the referral process for the benefit of the employees. Under the changes, the government has increased the rates of OPD fees from Rs 150 to Rs 350. Whereas, the IPD consultation fee has been increased by Rs 50 to Rs 350.
By increasing the private room limit of the hospital to Rs 4500, the central government has increased the rate admissible under the ICU services to the people connected with CGHS to Rs 5,400, which includes accommodation for all ward entitlements. The rent of the hospital room has also been increased.
The rent of general room has been increased from Rs 1000 to Rs 1500. Whereas, the rent of semi-private ward has been increased from Rs 2000 to Rs 3000 and the rent of private room has been increased from Rs 3000 to Rs 4500.
Beneficiary does not need to visit in person for referral
The Ministry has also simplified the process of referral under CGHS. Earlier the CGHS beneficiary had to personally visit the CGHS Wellness Center and take a referral to the hospital. But, now if the CGHS beneficiary is unable to go to the wellness centre, he can send someone on his behalf along with his documents. Medical officer can refer the beneficiary to go to the hospital after checking the documents. Apart from this, CGHS beneficiary can also take referral through video call.
