To meet the demand for quality diagnostic services in government health facilities, the Chief Minister initiated his Free Diagnostic Services Program. Free CT scans, X-rays, and laboratory testing have been provided to patients under Assamese government health facilities in an attempt to reduce the financial burdens that patients face at public health facilities. This program’s objective is primarily for diagnostic services to be mandated to promote access to health and to reduce the cost that needs to be paid by the patient.
Benefits
- Diagnostic Services are Free:
All admitted patients in government hospitals are covered with free diagnostic services, such as CT scans, X-rays, and laboratory tests, regardless of whether they come from an affluent or a low-income background. - Minimum Diagnostic Services:
It ensures that public health facilities provide a minimum number of diagnostics at different levels of care. - Reduced Healthcare Costs:
It helps to reduce the pocket expenditures that patients pay for diagnostic testing, which is among the greatest expenses. - Screening for Chronic Illness:
The use of diagnostic services diagnoses patients for chronic conditions early to facilitate timely preventive and intervention measures. - Healthcare Quality:
It increases the overall quality of healthcare and enhances patient experiences through the provision of integrated diagnostic services. - Implementation in PPP Mode:
The facilities are being implemented in PPP mode with private partners in district hospitals, PHCs, CHCs, and other government healthcare facilities.
Eligibility
- Residence: Assamese residents are eligible.
- Age: All age groups are eligible.
- Income Eligibility Criteria: No income restrictions; all people are eligible to avail of this program.
Offline Application Process
- Proceed to the nearest government-empanelled hospital or diagnostic center.
- Collect the application form from the center.
- Submit the application form along with relevant supporting documents.
- A free diagnostic test will be conducted if eligibility is confirmed.
Documents Needed
- Proof of Residence: Voter ID, Aadhaar card, or residence certificate to prove that you live in Assam.
- Medical Prescription: A prescription for the required diagnostic tests issued by a licensed healthcare professional.
Questions and Answers (FAQs)
Who is eligible for the CM Free Diagnostic Scheme?
- The program is open to all Assamese citizens, irrespective of their socioeconomic background or income.
Which diagnostic procedures are covered by this plan?
- In government health institutes, the test includes laboratory procedures, X-ray, and CT scan.
What are the necessary income criteria before one can enjoy this scheme?
- No income criteria apply; anybody qualifies for the plan.
Is the number of diagnostic tests eligible under the plan capped?
- It provides free diagnostic investigations as deemed appropriate by the concerned physician; an upper limit on the number is not specified.
Does this scheme cover private diagnostic centers?
- No, this scheme is available only in the hospitals and government-approved diagnostic centers.
Are there any costs or registration fees associated with the application for this plan?
- No, there is no registration fee, and the services are free.
How do I find the nearest government-approved diagnostic center?
- You can inquire at the nearest government medical hospital or log in to the official government website.
Can my family members also benefit from the scheme?
- Yes, family members who are eligible will also be able to get the benefit.
Once an application is submitted, how long does it take to avail free diagnostic services?
- There is no time-bound requirement, but services will be provided as per the doctor’s prescription.
Are some types of medical issues the only ones covered under the CM Free Diagnostic Scheme?
- No, it is an all-round diagnostic approach that covers various medical conditions.
References and Resources