Healthcare expenses in India are rising rapidly, making it difficult for many families to afford quality medical treatment. Recognising this challenge, the Government of India launched the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY)—a revolutionary health insurance scheme that provides free healthcare services to millions of underprivileged citizens. Under this initiative, beneficiaries receive the Ayushman Card, enabling them to access cashless treatment at empanelled hospitals nationwide.

With over 1.5 million monthly searches, the Card has become one of India's most widely sought-after healthcare solutions. But how does it work, and what are its benefits? 

What is the Ayushman Card?

This card is an official identity card issued under Ayushman Bharat-PMJAY. It allows eligible individuals to avail of free hospitalisation benefits at 25,000+ empanelled hospitals across India. It also acts as a digital health insurance card, enabling policyholders to receive cashless treatment for secondary and tertiary medical care.

The Ayushman Bharat scheme provides financial protection to low-income families who otherwise struggle to afford medical care. With coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year, this card has significantly improved healthcare accessibility across India.

Key Features

The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana is a government-funded health insurance scheme designed to provide financial protection to economically vulnerable families. It offers coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year, ensuring access to quality healthcare without financial burden. One of the biggest advantages of this scheme is that it is completely free, with no premium cost, making it a game-changer in public healthcare.

PMJAY eligibility is based on Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 data, ensuring that those who need it the most can benefit from the scheme. Beneficiaries can avail of 100% cashless treatment at over 25,000 empanelled hospitals across India, covering 1,500+ medical procedures, including treatments for critical illnesses. The scheme also offers nationwide portability, allowing individuals to access healthcare services at any network hospital, irrespective of their home state. Another key benefit is that pre-existing diseases are covered from day one, eliminating waiting periods and ensuring timely medical care.

While PMJAY provides comprehensive healthcare coverage at no cost, it may have certain limitations, such as capping on hospital room charges and specific procedures. In contrast, private health insurance plans like those from Niva Bupa Health Insurance offer higher coverage, access to premium hospitals, OPD benefits, and advanced treatments. For complete financial security, individuals can combine the benefits of PMJAY with a private health insurance plan, ensuring uninterrupted access to superior healthcare facilities.

Top Benefits of the Ayushman Card

Below are some key benefits of the card that you can avail of: 

1. ₹5 Lakh Free Health Coverage Per Family

One of the biggest advantages of the card is that each eligible family receives ₹5 lakh worth of free medical treatment per year. This amount can be used for:

  • Hospitalisation expenses
  • Surgery costs
  • Intensive care treatments
  • Post-hospitalisation care

The coverage extends to the entire family, ensuring that all members receive necessary medical attention without financial stress.

2. 100% Cashless Treatment

  • Patients do not have to pay anything out-of-pocket for treatments covered under PMJAY.
  • The government directly pays hospitalisation expenses, eliminating financial burdens on patients.
  • Treatment is available at both government and private hospitals, ensuring flexibility in healthcare access.

3. Covers 1,500+ Medical Procedures, Including Critical Illnesses

Unlike many private health insurance policies, which may exclude specific treatments, Ayushman Bharat provides coverage for:

  • Cancer treatments
  • Heart surgeries
  • Kidney dialysis
  • Joint replacements
  • Liver transplant (partial coverage)
  • COVID-19 treatment

This makes the card an essential lifeline for patients suffering from life-threatening conditions.

4. No Pre-Existing Disease Exclusions

One of the major benefits of the card is that all pre-existing diseases are covered from day one. Unlike many private insurers that impose a waiting period, Ayushman Bharat ensures that:

  • Patients suffering from diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and kidney disorders receive immediate medical care.
  • Families do not have to worry about exclusions related to pre-existing health conditions.

5. Nationwide Portability – Use it Anywhere in India

  • Beneficiaries can access free treatment at empanelled hospitals across the country.
  • This is particularly beneficial for migrant workers, labourers, and families that relocate frequently.
  • Unlike many state-sponsored health schemes, Ayushman Bharat allows treatment anywhere in India, ensuring seamless access to medical care.

6. No Premium or Hidden Costs

Unlike the best mediclaim insurance in India, which requires policyholders to pay annual premiums, the card is entirely free. The government fully funds the scheme, making healthcare affordable and accessible for low-income families.

7. Special Benefits for Women, Children, and Senior Citizens

  • The Ayushman Card covers maternity care, neonatal care, and elderly healthcare.
  • Pregnant women receive free delivery services, C-sections, and postnatal care.
  • Senior citizens get priority medical care for age-related conditions such as cataracts, arthritis, and heart disease.

How to Apply for an Ayushman Card?

Many people search for how to get a card, but it's important to note that manual registration is not required. Beneficiaries are automatically selected based on SECC 2011 data. However, you can check your eligibility and obtain your card using the steps below:

  1. Visit the Official PMJAY Website: https://pmjay.gov.in
  2. Click on "Am I Eligible?" and enter your mobile number.
  3. Verify your OTP and check if your name is on the PMJAY beneficiary list.
  4. Visit the nearest CSC (Common Service Centre) with:

    - Aadhaar Card

    - Ration Card (if applicable)

    - Mobile Number
  5. Biometric Verification & Card Issuance: Once verified, you will receive your Card (Golden Card).
  6. Start Using Your Card: The Card can be used immediately at empanelled hospitals for cashless treatment.

Conclusion

The Ayushman Card is a transformative healthcare initiative that has made free, high-quality treatment accessible to millions of Indians. Offering ₹5 lakh in medical coverage, cashless treatment, and nationwide portability, it has significantly improved healthcare accessibility.

However, for those who do not qualify for PMJAY or need higher coverage, opting for the best health insurance plan from Niva Bupa Health Insurance can provide broader protection, access to premium hospitals, and additional benefits.

By combining Ayushman Bharat with a private mediclaim policy for family, families can ensure comprehensive healthcare coverage for all medical emergencies. Apply for your Ayushman Card today and secure affordable medical treatment for a healthier future!