Srinagar, Mar 23 (KNO): The Government of India (GoI) on Monday said that no Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) wellness centre is currently operational in the Union Territory of Ladakh, while outlining alternative healthcare provisions available to beneficiaries in the region.
Replying to a starred question in Lok Sabha, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, as reported by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said that CGHS facilities have, however, been extended to pensioners residing in Ladakh through alternative mechanisms.
The GoI said that central government pensioners living in non-CGHS areas like Ladakh can avail Fixed Medical Allowance (FMA) in lieu of OPD facilities. They also have the option to register in nearby CGHS-covered cities to avail both OPD and IPD services after completing the required subscription formalities.
It further said that pensioners may opt for a combination of FMA for OPD treatment and CGHS benefits for IPD care, with a provision allowing a one-time switch between these options during their lifetime.
For serving Central Government employees posted in Ladakh, medical facilities are being provided under the Central Services (Medical Attendance) Rules, 1944, the Ministry said.
The government added that beneficiaries in Ladakh can also access healthcare services at AIIMS Jammu, Government Medical Colleges and district hospitals for their medical needs. In emergencies, reimbursement for treatment is also permitted as per norms.
Meanwhile, the Ministry informed that fresh guidelines have been issued to empanel private hospitals across district headquarters in the country, which is expected to improve healthcare accessibility in remote regions like Ladakh.
The government, however, did not specify any timeline for the establishment of a CGHS wellness centre in Ladakh—(KNO)