Ayushman Bharat Update: UP Govt Brings New Rule To Stop Fraud, Here's What Citizens Must Know

Ayushman Bharat Update: In a major update regarding the Ayushman Bharat scheme, the hospitals in Uttar Pradesh will be paid for ICU treatment only after confirmation from the patient or their relatives. As per the State Agency for Comprehensive Health and Integrated Services (SACHIS), approximately 600 claims for ICU treatment are made every month in the state. The authority further stated that the bills generated by the hospitals are verified by an agency appointed by the Centre, adding that a team of doctors also examines the bill. The SACHIS further stated that the patient or their relatives will be consulted if any suspicious bill is presented by the hospitals.

The authority, while providing details, stated that the treatment in the ICU is comparatively costly, adding that the SACHIS received multiple complaints regarding the possible fraud by the hospitals. It further stated that to maintain the transparency and accountability, the treatment will now be confirmed through a phone call either by the patient or their relatives. The authority further stated that a team will also visit the patient's home for verification if any discrepancy is suspected.

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The SACHIS emphasised that the hospital's contract will be terminated if any fraud is detected. While providing details, SACHIS Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Archana Verma stated that a notice is issued for the first time and a penalty of 10 times the bill is imposed if any discrepancy is found. She further stated that a second discrepancy results in termination of the hospital's contract, adding that hospitals have been fined Rs 3.61 crore in the past ten months.

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However, hospitals that perform exceptionally well are provided with incentives and accessible payments through the green channel. If a beneficiary needs to contact SACHIS with a complaint or suggestion, they can contact the toll-free numbers 180018004444 and 14555.