In a resounding endorsement from across state lines, Odisha’s capital Bhubaneswar has spotlighted Uttar Pradesh’s pioneering digital strides under the Ayushman Bharat scheme. During a two-day ‘Chintan Shivir’ organized by the National Health Authority (NHA) in collaboration with Odisha’s health ministry, UP’s model took center stage. The event aimed to review progress, share best practices, and foster innovation in delivering healthcare to millions.
CEO Archana Verma highlighted intensive discussions on the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) and the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. Uttar Pradesh earned special acclaim for leveraging digital tools to enhance beneficiary awareness, streamline access to information, and simplify service delivery. Previously, patients struggled with locating empaneled hospitals and obtaining accurate details. UP’s State Health Agency (SHA) countered this with targeted digital and IEC initiatives, dramatically improving user experiences.
At the forefront is the ‘Ayushman Saarthi’ mobile app, empowering users to find nearby panel hospitals effortlessly. Complementing it, the ‘Ayush AI Chatbot’ has resolved over 15,000 queries, reducing reliance on helplines. For OPD services, ‘Ayushman Sampark’ now facilitates appointment bookings, with more than 600 slots reserved already, cutting wait times and unnecessary visits.
UP’s creative IEC materials, like the ‘Ayushman’ superhero comics, are captivating audiences with engaging storytelling. These efforts have boosted awareness among children, youth, and families, leading to better beneficiary satisfaction, shorter queues, and higher scheme utilization. Notably, 42% of Ayushman Sampark OPD bookings come from seniors over 50, underscoring improved access for vulnerable groups. As states exchange ideas, UP’s blueprint is setting a national benchmark for digital health transformation.