The Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), commonly known as the Ayushman Card, is a groundbreaking health insurance initiative by the Government of India. It aims to provide free and cashless healthcare services to economically vulnerable families, covering a wide array of medical conditions. This article delves into the top 10 diseases treated free under the Ayushman Card, offering insights into the scope and benefits of this monumental scheme.

Understanding the Ayushman Bharat Scheme

Before exploring the specific diseases, it’s essential to grasp the framework of the Ayushman Bharat Scheme:

• Coverage Amount: Each eligible family receives health coverage up to ₹5 lakh per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization. citeturn0search1
• Beneficiaries: The scheme targets over 12 crore poor and vulnerable families, approximately 55 crore individuals, constituting the bottom 40% of India’s population. citeturn0search1
• Empaneled Hospitals: Beneficiaries can avail treatments at both public and private hospitals enlisted under the scheme. citeturn0search1
• Cashless and Paperless: The scheme ensures cashless transactions and maintains paperless records, simplifying the process for patients. citeturn0search1

Top 10 Diseases Covered Under Ayushman Card

The Ayushman Bharat Scheme encompasses a vast range of medical conditions. Here are ten significant diseases and medical procedures covered:

1. Cardiovascular Diseases

Heart-related ailments are among the leading causes of mortality in India. The Ayushman Card covers various cardiac procedures, including:

• Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG): A surgical procedure to improve blood flow to the heart. citeturn0search3
• Angioplasty: A minimally invasive procedure to open clogged heart arteries.
• Valve Replacements: Procedures like pulmonary and double valve replacements are included. citeturn0search3

2. Cancer Treatments

Cancer treatment can be financially draining. Under PMJAY, several oncology services are covered:

• Chemotherapy: Use of drugs to destroy cancer cells.
• Radiation Therapy: High doses of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.
• Surgical Oncology: Removal of tumors and cancerous tissues through surgery. citeturn0search5

3. Kidney Ailments

Renal diseases require extensive treatment. The Ayushman Card provides coverage for:

• Dialysis: Regular procedures to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood.
• Kidney Transplant: Surgical procedure to place a healthy kidney from a donor. citeturn0search3

4. Neurological Disorders

Conditions affecting the nervous system are included, such as:

• Brain Tumor Surgery: Removal of abnormal cell growth in the brain.
• Epilepsy Treatment: Medical management and surgical interventions for seizure disorders. citeturn0search5

5. Orthopedic Procedures

Bone and joint issues can significantly impact mobility. Covered treatments include:

• Joint Replacement Surgeries: Procedures like hip and knee replacements.
• Treatment for Fractures and Dislocations: Medical care for broken bones and joint injuries. citeturn0search5

6. Burns Management

Comprehensive care for burn injuries is provided, encompassing:

• Skin Grafting: Transplanting skin to cover damaged areas.
• Wound Dressing and Infection Control: Essential procedures to promote healing and prevent complications. citeturn0search5

7. Maternal and Child Health Services

Ensuring the well-being of mothers and children, the scheme covers:

• Cesarean Sections and Normal Deliveries: Facilitating safe childbirth.
• Treatment for Birth Defects: Medical interventions for congenital anomalies. citeturn0search5

8. Eye Disorders

Vision-related treatments are included, such as:

• Cataract Surgery: Removal of the clouded lens and replacement with an artificial one.
• Glaucoma Treatment: Management of increased intraocular pressure to prevent vision loss. citeturn0search5

9. Mental Health Conditions

Recognizing the importance of mental well-being, PMJAY covers:

• Treatment for Depression and Anxiety: Counseling and medication for mood disorders.
• Bipolar Disorder Management: Comprehensive care including therapy and pharmacological support. citeturn0search5

10. Infectious Diseases

The scheme provides for the treatment of various infections, including:

• Tuberculosis (TB): A bacterial infection affecting the lungs.
• HIV/AIDS: Management and treatment of Human Immunodeficiency Virus.
• COVID-19: Coverage for testing and treatment related to the coronavirus. citeturn0search5

Benefits Beyond Disease Coverage

While the list of diseases covered under the Ayushman Card is impressive, the scheme also offers many additional benefits beyond the treatment of major illnesses. Let’s look at some key advantages that make this health insurance scheme a lifeline for millions:

1. Financial Protection

One of the most significant advantages of the Ayushman Card is financial protection. For low-income families, a serious illness can mean massive debts or even selling assets. But with the Ayushman Bharat scheme:

• You get ₹5 lakh coverage per family per year.
• All costs including diagnostics, treatment, post-hospitalization, and medicine are covered.
• This means patients can focus on getting better rather than worrying about bills.

2. Cashless and Paperless Treatment

There is no need to pay upfront at empaneled hospitals. The entire process is digital, which means:

• No paperwork hassle
• No middlemen
• Quick and easy claim settlements

Once your Ayushman Card is verified, treatment starts immediately. Everything else is handled directly between the hospital and the government.

3. All-India Coverage

One fantastic feature of the Ayushman Bharat scheme is portability. You can get free treatment anywhere in India, regardless of your home state. This is especially helpful for:

• Migrant workers
• People traveling for work or family reasons
• Patients referred to specialty hospitals in bigger cities

4. Large Network of Empaneled Hospitals

You can receive treatment from over 25,000 empaneled public and private hospitals. This wide access ensures that no matter where you live, you’re likely to find a hospital nearby that accepts the Ayushman Card.

• Major cities have top hospitals covered under the scheme.
• Rural areas are supported by government and community health centers.

5. Preventive Health Support

Besides covering treatments, the scheme is also designed to promote wellness and early detection of diseases. Regular screenings are encouraged to catch diseases like cancer, diabetes, and hypertension early—before they become life-threatening.

How to Check Eligibility for Ayushman Card

Not everyone is eligible for the Ayushman Bharat scheme, so it’s essential to check your status.

Who is Eligible?

The scheme uses Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 data to identify eligible families. If your family falls under one of the following categories, you might be eligible:

• Families with no adult male members (female-headed households)
• Landless households
• Families living in one-room houses with kucha walls and roof
• Manual laborers or daily wage earners
• SC/ST households

For urban areas, eligibility is based on occupational categories like:

• Domestic workers
• Street vendors
• Rickshaw pullers
• Construction workers

How to Check Eligibility Online:

1. Visit https://mera.pmjay.gov.in
2. Enter your mobile number and OTP.
3. Search your name by ration card, Aadhaar, or mobile number.
4. If you’re eligible, your details and Ayushman ID will appear.

Steps to Get and Use Ayushman Card

Once you’ve confirmed eligibility, it’s time to generate your Ayushman Card.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Visit Your Nearest CSC Center or Hospital

• Bring your Aadhaar card and ration card.

1. Biometric Authentication

• The center will authenticate your identity using fingerprints.

1. Card Generation

• Your Ayushman Card (PMJAY Golden Card) will be issued digitally and physically.

1. Get Treatment

• Visit any empaneled hospital, show your card, and get treatment without paying a single rupee.

Documents Needed for Ayushman Card

To make the process smooth, carry these essential documents when applying:

• Aadhaar Card (mandatory)
• Ration Card or SECC details
• Mobile number (linked to Aadhaar)
• Passport-size photograph
• Residence proof (if asked)
• Caste Certificate (for SC/ST eligibility)

Common Misconceptions About Ayushman Card

There are many myths around the Ayushman Bharat scheme. Let’s clear a few:

1. It’s only for government hospitals.

Wrong! You can use the Ayushman Card in private hospitals too, as long as they are empaneled.

2. Only one person per family is covered.

False. The scheme covers entire families—parents, children, and sometimes even in-laws.

3. You need to pay money to get the card.

Not true. The card is completely free. Don’t pay any agent.

4. It’s only for serious diseases.

Incorrect. The card covers general surgeries, diagnostics, deliveries, and chronic diseases too.

Conclusion

The Ayushman Bharat Yojana has truly revolutionized healthcare for millions of Indians. With the Ayushman Card in hand, people from low-income backgrounds can now walk into hospitals with confidence, knowing they will receive quality treatment without financial burden.

From heart surgeries to kidney transplants, cancer therapies to maternity care—this scheme offers a lifeline for the common man. The diseases listed in this article are just the tip of the iceberg. With over 1,500+ medical procedures covered, Ayushman Bharat is not just a policy—it’s a promise for better health for every Indian.

If you or someone you know is eligible, don’t wait. Get your Ayushman Card today and secure your family’s health future.

FAQs

1. Can I use the Ayushman Card at private hospitals?

Yes, as long as the private hospital is empaneled under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.

2. Is the Ayushman Card valid in every state of India?

Yes, it has national portability. You can use it in any empaneled hospital across India.

3. How much does the Ayushman Card cost?

It is completely free. There are no charges to generate or use the card.

4. How many diseases are covered under Ayushman Bharat?

Over 1,500 medical procedures and diseases are covered, including surgeries, cancer treatment, maternity, and chronic illnesses.

5. Can I renew or reapply if I lose the Ayushman Card?

Yes. You can regenerate your card from the CSC center or download a digital version using your mobile and Aadhaar number.