Kolkata, September 25, 2023
In a significant development aimed at improving healthcare services for RELHS (Retired Employees Liberalized Health Scheme) beneficiaries aged 75 years and above, a pioneering pilot project offering Outpatient Department (OPD) medical facilities with related investigation from specialists of private hospitals empanelled by Railway has been launched. This initiative is set to redefine healthcare accessibility and quality for the railway community.
The Indian Railway retired population forms a sizeable portion and Indian Railways is committed to provide full medical facilities to them at their doorstep. Under this pilot project, beneficiaries, will have access to a wide range of medical services at the OPD. This partnership aims to reduce the burden on existing railway healthcare facilities and enhance the overall healthcare experience for beneficiaries. This is a Pilot Project is for one year i.e. 01.11.2023 to 31.10.2024. Private Hospitals empanelled under Railways shall provide above facilities on cashless basis at CGHS rates to Railway beneficiaries aged more than 75 years. This facility is not available to beneficiaries having UMID (Unique Medical Identification) card with Fixed Medical Allowance (FMA).
In emergency, no other authorization will be required and in non-emergency cases, approval of competent authority from Railways will be required for undertaking (a) CGHS non-listed investigations/ planned procedures; and (b) those CGHS listed investigations, which cost above Rs. 10000/-, whenever advised by specialist of empanelled hospitals. Private Hospitals empanelled under Railways shall provide above facilities on cashless basis at CGHS rates to Railway beneficiaries aged more than 75 years.
This ground-breaking initiative represents a significant step forward in the effort to enhance healthcare services for retired railway employees. It is expected to serve as a model for similar collaborations in the future, further improving healthcare access and quality for all retired railway beneficiaries.
As the pilot project is about to roll out, Railway authorities are optimistic about the positive impact it will have on the health and well-being of the railway community. This partnership underscores the commitment of both organizations to prioritize the health of those who serve the Nation's railways.
Eastern Railway is also processing for the new initiative of such relief to retired & aged Railway beneficiaries. This will be of immense help for an elderly person of above 75 years as after the introduction of this new healthcare facilities in Eastern Railway, will not require to attend the Out Patient Department of Railway Hospitals & all Railway Health Units, rather they can get the same quality service at nearby or convenient place for them from the speciality or super-speciality hospital enlisted with Eastern Railway for this purpose.
Speaking about the project, Sri Kausik Mitra, Chief Public Relations Officer stated, "This collaboration aligns with our commitment to improving healthcare services for Railway beneficiaries. We believe that this pilot project will not only reduce waiting times and improve access but also ensure world-class medical care for our Ex-employees and their families."
