Medical Reimbursement at CGHS Rates to Retired for Cataract Operations Conducted in Private Hospitals: BPS writes to H&FW Minister
BHARAT PENSIONER SAMAJ
(All India Federation of Pensioners Associations)
2/13-A- LGF Backside, Jangpura – ‘A’, New Delhi – 110014
No BPS/SG/Med/024/10
Dated : 04.06.2024
To
The Honourable
Union Minister H &FW
Government of India
2.The Secretary,
Ministry of H &FW
Government of India
Subject: Medical Reimbursement at CGHS Rates for Cataract Operations Conducted in Private Hospitals
Respected Sir/Madam,
Attention Required: Problem Area
Cataract surgery is a common medical procedure among individuals aged 60 and above. Currently, over 10% of our population falls within this age group, reflecting an increasing trend of senior citizens who require adequate medical facilities in their hometowns.
At present, medical expense reimbursement for cataract surgery is provided only if the operation is conducted in a government hospital. No reimbursement is available for surgeries performed in private hospitals. This policy needs urgent reconsideration.
Suggestions:
1. Limited Government Facilities:
‘Many towns and small cities lack government hospitals with facilities for cataract operations. Retired individuals living in these areas have no option but to seek medical treatment locally, often from private hospitals due to the absence of government facilities.
2. Compulsion to Use Private Hospitals:
‘Senior citizens are often compelled to undergo cataract surgery at private hospitals as these are the nearest and most accessible medical facilities. Therefore, it is essential to allow medical expense reimbursement at CGHS rates for cataract surgeries performed in private hospitals. This adjustment is crucial to ensure that senior citizens receive timely and convenient medical care.
Conclusion:
Given the significant and growing number of senior citizens, it is imperative to address their medical needs effectively. Allowing reimbursement for cataract surgeries performed in private hospitals at CGHS rates would greatly benefit them. This policy change would demonstrate the government’s commitment to respecting and caring for our senior and super senior citizens.
We trust that the Government will take appropriate action to address this pressing issue and provide the necessary support lo our senior citizens.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
S8.C.Maheshwari
Secretary General
Bharat Pensioners Samaj
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