Odisha Health Department Warns Hospitals Against Illegal Fees Under AB‑PMJAY and GJAY

In a move aimed at protecting the most vulnerable patients, the Odisha health department on Thursday issued an official advisory to every hospital that participates in the Ayushman Bharat‑Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB‑PMJAY) and the GJAY scheme. The circular makes it crystal clear: no extra, unauthorised charges are to be levied on beneficiaries.

“Patients come to us already facing financial distress,” said Health Minister Pradeep Kumar Guru, during a brief press interaction. “If a hospital asks for additional payments that aren’t covered under the schemes, it defeats the very purpose of these flagship programmes.” He added that any institution found flouting the directive would face punitive measures, including the possible suspension of its empanelment.

Officials say they have received a few complaints over the past month about hospitals tacking on hidden fees for services supposedly covered under the central health schemes. While many hospitals comply, a handful have been allegedly demanding extra payments for diagnostics, medicines, or even room charges, leaving patients bewildered and often forced to pay out of pocket.

The advisory, which has been circulated to over 2,000 empanelled facilities across the state, reiterates the guidelines laid out by the National Health Authority. It reminds hospitals that the amount reimbursed under AB‑PMJAY and GJAY is final, and any deviation is a violation of both state and central regulations.

To enforce compliance, the department has set up a monitoring cell that will conduct surprise inspections and review billing records. “We are not just issuing a warning; we are backing it up with on‑the‑ground verification,” the minister emphasized.

Patient groups have welcomed the move, calling it a long‑overdue step to curb exploitation. “Our elders and children depend on these schemes for essential care,” said Ramesh Prasad, a local activist. “When hospitals add hidden costs, it erodes trust and pushes families deeper into poverty.”

While the advisory is still fresh, hospitals have been asked to acknowledge receipt within 48 hours and confirm that they will abide by the stipulated norms. The health department says it will issue a follow‑up notice if any institution fails to respond or continues the practice.

In a broader context, Odisha’s proactive stance reflects a growing concern across several states about the misuse of central health schemes. By tightening the reins now, the state hopes to ensure that the intended benefits truly reach those who need them most, without the shadow of unexpected charges.