In a country as diverse and populous as India, access to healthcare for all can be a challenge. That’s where the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY) steps in. It’s one of the largest government-backed health insurance schemes globally, aimed at providing a financial safety net to millions of low-income families.
If you’re wondering how to check if you or your family members are covered, how to download your card, or where you can use it — this guide walks you through every step.
What Exactly Is the Ayushman Bharat Scheme?
The Ayushman Bharat initiative was introduced by the Indian government with a mission to bridge the gap between the common man and affordable healthcare. This scheme offers free hospitalization coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year, allowing access to a wide network of government and private hospitals across India.
Whether it’s a planned surgery or an emergency, patients can receive cashless treatment without worrying about hospital bills. The scheme primarily benefits those identified under the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011, and other eligible households identified by local authorities.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Verify Your Name on the Ayushman List
Before you can avail yourself of the benefits, you need to verify your inclusion in the Ayushman Bharat list. Fortunately, the government has made this process simple and accessible online.
Here’s how you can check:
- Visit the Official Portal
Go to https://bis.pmjay.gov.in - Enter a Valid Mobile Number
Use any mobile number that you have access to for receiving OTPs. - Authenticate with OTP
Submit the OTP you receive to proceed to the next step. - Choose Your State
Select your state from the available list to filter the search database. - Search Using Available Options
You can look up your details by entering your:- Name
- Ration Card Number
- Aadhaar Number
- Check the Results
If your name appears, you are eligible to receive the Ayushman Bharat benefits.
This quick process can help you determine in minutes whether you’re covered.
Digital Access: Downloading Your Ayushman Bharat Card Online
Once you’ve confirmed that you’re a beneficiary, the next essential step is to download your Ayushman card. This digital card contains all your details and is required whenever you go for treatment under the scheme.
To download the card:
- Visit the Card Portal: Open https://mera.pmjay.gov.in
- Log In: Use your mobile number and verify via OTP.
- Access the Dashboard: After logging in, your beneficiary details will appear.
- Download the Card: Click on “Download Card” next to the member’s name.
- Save as PDF: The card will be downloaded in PDF format. Print or store it for hospital visits.
There is no charge for downloading this card, and the process can be completed in just a few minutes.
Finding the Right Healthcare Facility: Hospital Search Under PM-JAY
Now that you have your card, the next step is knowing where you can use it. Thousands of hospitals — both public and private — have partnered with the scheme to provide cashless treatment to beneficiaries.
To find an empaneled hospital:
- Go to Hospital Search Page: Open https://hospitals.pmjay.gov.in
- Select Location Filters:
- State
- District
- Choose Type of Hospital:
- Government
- Private
- All
- Click Search: The portal will display a full list of hospitals including:
- Name of Hospital
- Address
- Contact Information
- Medical Specialties Offered
This tool helps you locate the most convenient and appropriate hospital based on your health needs.
Key Benefits of Holding an Ayushman Bharat Card
Owning an Ayushman card offers you access to one of the most inclusive healthcare coverages in India. Here are some of the major benefits:
- ₹5 Lakh Annual Coverage: Entire family is covered under one umbrella for both minor and major treatments.
- Cashless and Paperless Treatment: The entire process from admission to discharge is hassle-free — no payments or lengthy paperwork.
- No Age or Family Size Limitations: Whether it’s a newborn or a senior citizen, everyone in the family is eligible.
- Covers 1500+ Medical Procedures: Ranging from routine checkups to complex surgeries like heart bypass, joint replacements, cancer treatment, etc.
- Pan-India Access: The card works at any listed hospital across the country, making it beneficial even while traveling.
- Empaneled Hospitals with Ayushman Mitras: Trained assistants at hospitals help guide you through the process of availing your treatment.
Where to Get Help and More Information
If you’re not confident navigating these portals yourself, you can get in-person assistance at multiple locations:
- Common Service Centers (CSC): These centers can help you check your name, print your card, and guide you through the process.
- Hospital Help Desks: Each empaneled hospital has an Ayushman Mitra who assists with verification, treatment packages, and documentation.
- Official Helpline: Dial 14555 to get assistance directly from PM-JAY customer care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is the Ayushman Bharat card accepted across all Indian states?
Yes. As long as the hospital is listed under the PM-JAY scheme, your card will be accepted, no matter the state.
Q: Can I apply for the card online?
Eligible individuals can check their name and download the card online, but new applications generally require in-person verification at CSCs.
Q: What documents are required to access the scheme?
You typically need your Aadhaar card, ration card, and a mobile number for verification.
Q: Is there any charge to avail treatment under this scheme?
No. All listed treatments are completely cashless for eligible cardholders at empaneled hospitals.
Q: Does it cover pre-existing diseases?
Yes, the scheme provides coverage from day one, regardless of existing health conditions.