Archive · 4 Aug 2025
CGHS Guidelines Updated: Key Changes for Beneficiaries
The government has changed some rules for the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS).
One big change is that it's now easier to get treatment.
For example, if you're in the hospital with a referral, you don't need to take pictures anymore.
If you're over 70, you'll need to take fewer photos.
Also, they are hiring more people to help with physiotherapy.
These changes aim to make it simpler for people, especially the elderly and those who are very sick, to get the healthcare they need.
CGHS has updated its guidelines for beneficiaries, especially the elderly and seriously ill.
Geo-tagged photo requirements in hospitals have been relaxed.
In IPD referral cases, geo-tagged photos are no longer required.
New rules detail photo requirements for non-referral IPD and OPD cases.
The government is expediting the recruitment of physiotherapists for CGHS Wellness Centers.
- Who
- CGHS beneficiaries and healthcare providers.
- What
- Changes to CGHS guidelines for beneficiaries.
- When
- Changes were recently made.
- Where
- Applicable across CGHS services.
- Why
- To make the CGHS system more effective and patient-friendly.
- Photo Requirement - IPD Referral
- No geo-tagged photos required.
- Photo Requirement - Non-Referral IPD
- 2 photos at admission and discharge; Additional photo every 7 days if stay exceeds 7 days.
- Photo Requirement - OPD with referral
- No photo required
- Photo Requirement - OPD without referral
- Mandatory if patient above 70, bedridden, or in follow-up.
- Photo Size
- Less than 1MB
- Physiotherapist Recruitment
- Expedited
- Home-based Physiotherapy
- Available; guidelines from June 1, 2011, still valid