Healthcare on Wheels: Delhi Rolls Out Special Vans for Senior Citizens’ Health Card Drive

Image Source: Hindustan Times

Delhi has initiated a pioneering scheme to bring access to healthcare to the doorstep of its aging citizens. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta flagged off a group of 70 mobile registration vans, each deployed to one of the city's 70 assembly constituencies, under the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Yojana. In the coming 70 days, these vans will go door-to-door, registering senior citizens who are 70 years and above for health cards that cover cashless medical care up to ₹10 lakh per year.

This ambitious plan is available to all Delhi citizens between the ages, irrespective of social class or income. Registration is easy-eligible seniors require nothing more than their Aadhaar and proof of Delhi residence. The health cover puts together ₹5 lakh from the central Ayushman Bharat scheme with a further ₹5 lakh from the Delhi government, providing strong cover against medical bills.

Already, the response has been overwhelming, with over 28,000 seniors registering within the first week. The vans, equipped with computer operators, will conduct on-the-spot registrations, helping elderly citizens overcome paperwork and digital hurdles. With access to over 100 empanelled hospitals, Delhi’s elderly can now look forward to a healthier, worry-free future-no queues, no advance payments, just seamless care.

Sources: The Statesman, Times of India, Economic Times