Punjab Expands Free Healthcare to Solo Residents

The Punjab government has broadened the scope of its Mukh Mantri Sehat Yojana (MMSY) by approving 17 additional medical procedures for treatment at empanelled private hospitals. This expansion, announced on June 3, also extends eligibility to individuals living alone, including parents whose children reside abroad. The initiative is designed to alleviate pressure on government hospitals and enhance access to specialized healthcare services throughout Punjab.

Key additions include general surgery procedures like hydrocele and gall bladder surgeries, women's healthcare services such as medical termination of pregnancy beyond 12 weeks, and various eye and orthopaedic treatments. Package rates for these new procedures range from ₹2,000 to ₹27,800. Previously, the scheme primarily focused on multi-member households, but now single-member beneficiaries can also enroll with proper declarations and verifications.

Currently, 824 hospitals, encompassing government and private facilities, are part of the MMSY network. The scheme already covers approximately 2,300 diseases and procedures, with ongoing efforts to further expand its reach and provide cashless healthcare services to more residents across the state.