Progress of PM-JAY and ABDM discussed in NHA review meeting in Bhopal

Bhopal, October 16 (IANS). The two-day national review meeting of the National Health Authority (NHA) which began on October 15 in Bhopal was also held on Thursday. The purpose of this meeting was to evaluate the progress of Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) and Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) and outline their future. NHA CEO Dr. Sunil Kumar Baranwal, Joint Secretary Jyoti Yadav besides many senior officials, experts and stakeholders from across the country participated in the programme. The main objective of the meeting was to review the implementation of these schemes in the States and Union Territories, share good practices and create a roadmap for PM-JAY 2.0 and ABDM 2.0. Dr. Baranwal emphasized on integration and expansion of these schemes. He said, “This revision is an important step towards strengthening digital health and providing quality healthcare to every citizen. Ayushman Bharat has benefited more than 45 crore people. The cooperation of states and union territories can make it the largest health scheme in the world.” During this, Dr. Baranwal said that Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman-Diu and Ladakh were honored with the Zero Pending Month award for their excellent performance in governance. Former Secretary of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology J. Satyanarayana said, “Suggestions from states are important in preparing the ABDM 2.0 report, so that we can become a leader at the global level.” NHA also released its Annual Report 2024-25 on the occasion, highlighting the achievements and innovations of PM-JAY and ABDM. Jyoti Yadav highlighted the progress made by states, including improvements in claims management, beneficiary coverage and portability. “State leadership is critical in scaling up and effectively implementing these schemes. It is important to tailor PM-JAY 2.0 to local needs,” he said. Describing ABDM as the foundation of digital health, Kiran Gopal Vaska said, “It is not just a tool but a revolution. The ABDM index will drive accountability and innovation. Its integration with PM-JAY will bring a sea change in healthcare.” Dr. Yogesh Tukaram Bharsat, CEO of Madhya Pradesh Health Agency, welcomed the participants, while Santosh Mathew of Gates Foundation presented the Care Coordination Model, highlighting the synergy of both the schemes. Digital health, performance improvement and outcomes of Anti-Fraud Unit (NAFU) were discussed in the meeting. Dr. Baranwal and Jyoti Yadav visited AIIMS Bhopal and got information about digital integration. The team experienced patients’ digital journey from online registration to e-prescribing and digital payments. Prof. Madhavanand, director of AIIMS, spoke about improving the patient experience through technology. At the end of the session, Dr Baranwal visited the Sehat Setu-Care Integration Programme, which addresses emergency calls and complaints in Bhopal. In the meeting, emphasis was placed on the progress of states and the adoption of digital solutions. The event concluded with a pledge to expand PM-JAY 2.0 and ABDM 2.0 and strengthen cooperation between states, which will form the basis of major changes in healthcare. –IANS shk/vc