The Union Health Ministry is set to launch ‘Ayushman Bhav’, a comprehensive initiative aimed at ensuring the full reach of all government health schemes, particularly to those in remote areas. As per officials, a slew of activities, including Ayushman Apke Dwar 3.0, Ayushman Sabha, Ayushman Mela, and Ayushman Gram, are part of this programme.
“Ayushman Bhav seeks to guarantee saturation coverage of all health schemes so that each eligible beneficiary can access the benefits,” said an official source. The programme builds on the successful delivery of Ayushman Apke Dwar 1 and 2 drives, with the third instalment scheduled to begin on August 1.
Ayushman Sabha will serve as a village-level campaign, coordinated by the village health, sanitation, and nutrition committee. The intent is to ensure health benefits from central and state governments reach all intended recipients. It will also boost awareness about Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojna (PMJAY) health insurance scheme cards and the Ayushman Bharat Health Accounts (ABHA) numbers.
These village campaigns are expected to enlighten the public about the screening services for non-communicable diseases and communicable diseases like tuberculosis, along with reproductive and child health issues, immunisation, and anaemia.
Ayushman Melas, to be held at Ayushman Bharat Health and Wellness Centres (AB-HWCs), are designed to raise awareness of healthy behaviours and provide early diagnosis, comprehensive primary health care services, teleconsultation with health specialists, and appropriate referrals.