The Ayushman Bharat Card, officially known as PM Jan Arogya Yojana Card, is one of India’s biggest health protection initiatives. It allows eligible families to receive free medical treatment worth up to Rs 5 lakh per year at empanelled hospitals across the country. Millions of people already use this card, but many still do not know how to find nearby hospitals that accept it or what benefits are fully covered. This guide explains everything in a simple, Discover-friendly way.
What Is Ayushman Bharat Card and Why It Matters
Ayushman Bharat Card is issued under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana scheme launched by the Government of India. The main aim is to provide cashless and paperless treatment for secondary and tertiary care. The card works across states, meaning beneficiaries can get treatment even outside their home state at approved hospitals.
This scheme is especially important for low-income families who cannot afford expensive hospital bills. From surgeries to major treatments, the card helps reduce financial stress during medical emergencies.
Who Is Eligible for Ayushman Bharat Card
Eligibility is decided based on SECC data and state-specific rules. Rural and urban criteria differ, and beneficiaries are identified automatically by the government database. There is no age limit and no restriction on family size, which makes it more inclusive than many other health schemes.
People already included in the eligible list can download or print their card and start using it without paying any registration fee.
How to Find Ayushman Bharat Hospitals Near You
Finding hospitals that offer free treatment under Ayushman Bharat is now very easy. The government has provided digital tools that help users search empanelled hospitals by state, district, specialty, and hospital type. Both public and private hospitals are part of this network, and new hospitals are added regularly.
You can search using your mobile phone and check which hospitals near your location are active under the scheme. This helps patients plan treatment in advance and avoid confusion during emergencies.
Types of Hospitals Covered Under Ayushman Bharat
| Hospital Type | Treatment Availability |
|---|---|
| Government Hospitals | Free treatment under all approved packages |
| Private Hospitals | Cashless treatment for selected procedures |
| Specialty Hospitals | Cardiology, oncology, orthopaedics and more |
| Multi-Specialty Hospitals | Surgeries, ICU care and diagnostics |
This wide network ensures that beneficiaries have multiple options depending on their medical needs and location.
Major Benefits of Ayushman Bharat Card
The scheme offers several strong benefits that make it different from regular health insurance plans.
- Cashless treatment up to Rs 5 lakh per family per year
- Coverage for pre-hospitalisation and post-hospitalisation expenses
- No restriction on age or family size
- Works in any empanelled hospital across India
- Covers surgeries, medicines, diagnostics and ICU care
This single bullet section highlights why the scheme is considered a game changer in public healthcare.
Treatments and Diseases Covered Under the Scheme
Ayushman Bharat covers more than 1,500 medical packages. These include heart surgeries, cancer treatment, kidney dialysis, orthopaedic procedures, maternity services, and emergency care. Both planned and emergency treatments are included, provided the hospital is empanelled and the procedure is approved.
Routine OPD services are generally not covered, but major inpatient treatments form the core of the scheme.
Latest Updates and Rules You Should Know
The government keeps updating hospital lists, treatment packages, and verification processes. Many states have integrated biometric verification and digital health IDs to make the process smoother. Some states also offer additional coverage on top of the Rs 5 lakh limit.
Beneficiaries are advised to always check the current hospital status before admission, as empanelment can change.
How to Use Ayushman Bharat Card at Hospital
Using the card is simple. Visit an empanelled hospital, show your Ayushman card or provide your registered mobile number or Aadhaar for verification. After eligibility confirmation, the hospital will process treatment approval through the scheme portal. Once approved, treatment is provided without asking for payment.
Conclusion
Ayushman Bharat Card is a powerful support system for families who need quality healthcare without financial burden. Knowing how to find nearby hospitals and understanding what is covered can save time, money, and stress during medical emergencies. If you are eligible, keeping your card ready and staying updated with hospital lists can help you make the most of this government health scheme.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Scheme rules and hospital lists may change as per government updates.