Ayushman Bharat: How to Get Free Treatment Even If Your Card Limit Is Exhausted

Balasahana Suresh
The Ayushman Bharat health Scheme has been a lifeline for millions of low-income families in India, offering cashless treatment up to ₹10 lakh in delhi and 5 lakh in other states. But what happens when your Ayushman card limit is exhausted?

1. Understanding the Ayushman Card Limit

· Each Ayushman cardholder has a treatment coverage limit per financial year.

· Once this limit is reached, additional treatments may not be automatically covered.

· Many patients mistakenly think they cannot avail any more free healthcare, but there is a solution.

Knowing the rules helps you continue receiving benefits without unnecessary delays.

2. Methods to Get Free Treatment Beyond the Limit

Method 1: State-Level Ayushman Schemes

· Many states have top-up programs that extend the coverage beyond the central scheme.

· Example: Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh provide additional financial support for high-cost treatments.

Method 2: Special Approval from NHA

· Patients can request exceptional approval from the National health Authority (NHA).

· This usually applies in cases of life-threatening illnesses or critical surgeries.

Method 3: Portability Across Hospitals

· If your treatment in one hospital exhausts the limit, check if other empaneled hospitals in your state or another state have separate arrangements.

· Sometimes, different empaneled hospitals may allow fresh approvals for urgent treatments.

Method 4: Social Welfare or Charitable Assistance

· State governments, NGOs, and hospital charity funds sometimes cover patients whose Ayushman limit is exceeded.

· Keep all medical records ready to prove eligibility for additional support.

3. Important Steps to Follow

1. Check your card balance at the hospital or via the Ayushman Bharat portal.

2. Request approval for additional treatment before admission.

3. Keep all documents ready, including ID proof, medical reports, and previous claim history.

4. Consult hospital social workers—they can guide you on state-specific top-ups.

Being proactive can help you access life-saving treatment even after the official limit is reached.

4. Conclusion

Even if your Ayushman card limit is exhausted, free treatment is not necessarily over.

· Explore state top-up schemes

· Seek exceptional approval from NHA

· Utilize hospital charity programs

· Check for portability options across hospitals

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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