Archive · 26 Jul 2025
IMA Raises Concerns Over Unpaid Bills for Ayushman Bharat
Imagine a healthcare plan called Ayushman Bharat that helps poor people pay for hospital visits.
The plan pays hospitals, but some hospitals aren't getting paid on time.
The Indian Medical Association, or IMA (like a big group of doctors), says that hospitals are owed a lot of money – over 1.21 lakh crore!
They say payments are late, and hospitals don't get enough money to cover their costs.
The IMA wants to make it easier for hospitals to get paid and to update how much they're paid.
If things don't change, it could be hard for poor people to get good healthcare.
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has raised concerns about unpaid bills under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
Over Rs 1.21 lakh crore in claims remain outstanding nationwide, as per an RTI.
The IMA cites delayed payments, low reimbursement rates, and complex claim processes as major issues.
The IMA recommends automating payments, revising reimbursement rates, and simplifying claim procedures.
Government officials and the IMA are discussing reforms to improve the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
- Who
- The Indian Medical Association (IMA), the National Health Authority (NHA), and the government.
- What
- The IMA is flagging unpaid bills under the Ayushman Bharat scheme and proposing reforms.
- When
- The IMA raised these concerns in a white paper, with many bills outstanding from 2021-2023.
- Where
- India, with specific examples cited in Gujarat and Kerala.
- Why
- To address issues of delayed payments and ensure the sustainability of the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
IMA Concerns
Government's Stance
Payment Processes
IMA Concerns
Delayed payments, low reimbursement rates, and complicated claim processes are hindering hospital finances.
Government's Stance
Government acknowledges challenges and urges states to adjust models for better efficiency.
Pricing and Quality of Care
IMA Concerns
Uniform pricing discourages high-quality hospitals from participating.
Government's Stance
The scheme is aimed to providing financial aid for healthcare needs.
- Scheme Name
- Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY)
- Unpaid Claims
- Over Rs 1.21 lakh crore
- Beneficiary Coverage
- Nearly 55 crore individuals
- Number of Ayushman Cards Issued
- Over 41 crore
- Number of Hospitals
- 31,466 (including over 14,000 private facilities)
- States with highest and lowest card distribution
- Uttar Pradesh (5.33 crore) and Lakshadweep (36,000)