Chief Ministers Health Insurance Scheme: A Lifeline for Tamil Nadus Healthcare Access
Overview:
Formerly known as Kalaingar Kaappittu Thittam, the Chief Minister`s Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme was inaugurated on July 23, 2009, with the aim of offering quality healthcare to eligible individuals. This initiative, now managed by United India Insurance Company since January 2022, strives to reduce financial burdens for enrolled families and progress towards universal health coverage by effectively integrating with the public health system. As of January 2022, approximately 1.37 crore families are covered under this scheme, with 1090 procedures, 8 follow-up procedures, and 52 diagnostic procedures encompassed across 800 government and 900 private empanelled hospitals.
Features:
1. Cashless Hospitalization:
The scheme provides cashless hospitalization for specific ailments and procedures, offering coverage of up to Rs. 5,00,000/- per family per year on a floater basis.
2. Extensive Hospital Network:
With a wide network of empanelled hospitals, beneficiaries can access medical facilities swiftly, even in remote areas.
3. Comprehensive Coverage:
Encompassing various treatments, the scheme ensures beneficiaries can avail themselves of covered treatments without additional financial strain.
4. High Sum Insured:
Offering coverage of up to Rs. 5 lakhs per family annually, the scheme alleviates the burden of healthcare expenses for eligible families.
5. Additional Coverage:
Unlike standard health insurance policies, this scheme includes coverage for follow-up treatments and diagnostic procedures, further easing financial concerns for beneficiaries.
Eligibility:
Residents of Tamil Nadu meeting specific criteria are eligible for the scheme. Applicants must have their names on the family card, with a family income not exceeding Rs. 1,20,000/- annually. Necessary documents include the family card, Aadhar card, income certificate issued by VAO/Revenue Authorities, and a self-declaration from the head of the family. Eligible family members include the applicant, their legal spouse, children, and dependent parents.
Exclusions:
The scheme excludes non-residents of Tamil Nadu, individuals with an annual income exceeding Rs. 72,000/-, members not listed on the family ration card, non-Sri Lankan refugees without proof of citizenship, migrants from other states without migration certificates, orphans, and rescued girl children not associated with registered/unregistered organizations.
Application Process:
The application process involves obtaining an income certificate from the Village Administrative Officer or Revenue authorities, gathering necessary documents, presenting them for verification at the enrollment center, providing biometric details, and receiving the e-card upon verification.
Required Documents:
Income certificate, ration card (original and photocopy), self-declaration from the head of the family, proof of identity, address proof, Aadhar card, and optionally PAN card.
This comprehensive scheme stands as a vital initiative in ensuring accessible and affordable healthcare for vulnerable sections of society, thereby fostering a healthier populace and promoting overall well-being.
