Funding Delays Hit Ayushman Bharat, Chhattisgarh Hospitals Pass Costs to Patients

Ayushman Bharat Funding Delays Spark Crisis in Chhattisgarh Hospitals.

Chhattisgarh’s healthcare system is facing a crunch as dues under Ayushman Bharat — the Centre’s flagship scheme that promises free treatment of up to ₹5 lakh per family annually — have reportedly piled up to nearly ₹200 crore. Several hospitals say they are being forced to charge patients despite valid scheme cards.

The Association of Healthcare Providers of India (AHPI) has announced a five-day suspension of Ayushman Bharat services, warning that hospitals cannot sustain operations without timely reimbursements. “Running hospitals without funds is unsustainable,” said Dr Rakesh Gupta, AHPI’s state president, adding that grievance redressal meetings are not being held.

Families allege they were asked to pay cash despite holding Ayushman cards. “The scheme is supposed to be free, but we had to mortgage land for treatment,” said one patient in Bilaspur. Hospital directors insist continuing cashless treatment is no longer viable. “Dues are piling up. Without funds, hospitals cannot run the scheme,” said Dr Sandeep Dave of Ramkrishna Hospital.

The state government, however, has denied any fund shortage. Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal said ₹505 crore — including the Centre’s share — had already been released. “Hospitals refusing treatment under Ayushman must submit this in writing,” he stated.