In the rugged terrains of Chamoli, Uttarakhand’s border district, the Ayushman Bharat scheme is rewriting the story of healthcare access. Over 500 eligible residents have received Ayushman and Vay Vandana cards, enabling them to access free treatment at empaneled hospitals without financial worry.
Awal Singh Rawat, a local beneficiary, shared his relief after a hospital admission. ‘Earlier, treatment meant traveling far and bearing heavy costs. Now, my entire care is covered by the Ayushman card,’ he said. This scheme has bridged the gap for families in isolated mountain villages where medical facilities were once a distant dream.
Bhimsingh, another resident, echoed similar sentiments. Suffering from prolonged health issues, he followed doctor’s advice for admission, and all tests and treatments came at no cost. ‘I urge everyone to get their cards and avail this benefit,’ he appealed, thanking the government.
Historically, Chamoli’s geography posed severe challenges: treacherous roads, limited transport, and poverty often delayed critical care. Ayushman Bharat Vay Vandana is changing that, offering comprehensive coverage from admission to discharge for seniors and vulnerable groups.
Health teams are proactively reaching villages, prioritizing elderly in border areas for enrollment. This initiative not only eases economic burdens but fulfills the vision of quality healthcare for the last mile.
As more cards are issued, stories of hope emerge from these hills, signaling a healthier future for Chamoli’s remote communities.