Tamil Nadu   

“Revised insurance scheme will improve access to healthcare”

KARAIKUDI: The revised Universal Health Insurance Scheme will play a major role in bringing almost all people of the country, including those below poverty line, in the health insurance net, according to Union Finance Minister P. Chidambaram.

Launching the scheme at a function here on Sunday, he said it was redesigned to improve access to healthcare facilities for BPL families. Several more benefits had been incorporated for the benefit of policy holders.

The scheme offered III-tier cover for a premium of Rs.300 per annum for individuals, Rs.450 for a family not exceeding five members, and Rs.600 for a family not exceeding seven members. Subsidy on premium would be paid on behalf of BPL families to bring more and more people to enjoy the benefits of the scheme.

The upper age limit for individuals had been relaxed to 70 from 65 years. It was decided to reimburse the cost of all type of diseases. Pre-existing illness would also be covered. The policyholders could also claim the cost of maternity treatment.

Mr. Chidambaram said the government and insurance companies would also pay the premium for the health insurance policy of poor people. Officials should utilise the opportunity not only to create awareness among the people of the benefits of the scheme but also make them take up health insurance in a big way.

K. R. Periakaruppan, Minister for Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowment, said the revised scheme would receive overwhelming response from people, as the premium was very low. The benefits of the scheme were also very attractive. People should utilise the scheme well to bring all members of their family under insurance cover.

G. Srinivasan, Chairman and Managing Director, United India Insurance Company, said the scheme would facilitate reimbursement of bills towards room, boarding expenses, constancy and other expenses.

Collector Pankaj Kumar Bansal said by paying a very little amount towards health insurance annually, the poor could get excellent treatment from good hospitals, as the insurance company would reimburse the treatment bills.

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