Private hospitals across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana have suspended Aarogyasri healthcare services, citing substantial unpaid dues from the respective state governments. This suspension has left numerous beneficiaries without access to essential medical treatments, exacerbating healthcare challenges for economically disadvantaged populations.

Mounting Financial Strain on Private Hospitals

The Telangana Aarogyasri Network Hospitals Association (TANHA) has reported that private hospitals are facing significant financial strain due to delayed reimbursements under the Aarogyasri scheme. Despite assurances from the government, outstanding payments have persisted, compelling hospitals to halt services to Aarogyasri beneficiaries. TANHA has emphasized that services will not resume until the government addresses these financial obligations.

Impact on Patients

The suspension of Aarogyasri services has severely impacted patients who rely on this scheme for affordable healthcare. In Andhra Pradesh, hospitals have limited treatments to emergency cases only, leaving many patients without necessary medical care. The Andhra Pradesh Speciality Hospitals Association (ASHA) has indicated that if the government does not resolve the issue promptly, even emergency services may be discontinued.

Government Response and Pending Dues

In Andhra Pradesh, private hospitals are owed nearly ₹3,000 crore. The government had previously promised to clear these dues but has yet to fulfill this commitment. This financial backlog has forced hospitals to suspend most treatments under the Aarogyasri scheme, compelling patients to seek alternative, often more expensive, healthcare options.

Call for Immediate Action

Healthcare associations in both states are urging the respective governments to expedite the clearance of pending dues to ensure the continuity of the Aarogyasri scheme. They stress that the financial viability of private hospitals is crucial for providing uninterrupted healthcare services to the underprivileged sections of society. The associations have also called for a revision of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the hospitals and the Aarogyasri Trust to establish fair and timely reimbursement practices.

Conclusion

The suspension of Aarogyasri services in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana highlights the urgent need for governmental intervention to resolve financial discrepancies and ensure the sustainability of healthcare services for the poor. Timely reimbursement and transparent communication between the government and private hospitals are essential to maintain the trust and efficacy of the Aarogyasri healthcare scheme.