In today’s times, the cost of medical treatment can break any family’s budget. However, the Government of India’s Ayushman Bharat Yojana (PM-JAY) has emerged as a safety net for poor and middle-class families. Under this scheme, eligible beneficiaries receive free treatment up to ₹5 lakh annually.
However, the biggest question on cardholders’ minds is whether they will have to run around offices every year to renew their Ayushman Card. In this article, we will discuss in detail the validity of the Ayushman Card, the renewal process, and the easiest way to obtain it, so you can take advantage of this government benefit without any hassle.
Annual Renewal is Necessary
There is a widespread misconception among Ayushman cardholders that they need to update or renew their card every year. Once your Ayushman Card is issued, there is no need to renew it separately. As soon as the new financial year begins, your card’s ₹5 lakh limit automatically resets.
This means that the government automatically adds a new balance of ₹5 lakh to your card every year for treatment. You don’t need to visit any office or reapply for this. However, this benefit continues as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for the scheme. This benefit can only be discontinued if your eligibility expires in the future.
Two Ways to Get an Ayushman Card
If you don’t yet have this magical card, you can ensure your health security in two main ways. The first method is to visit your nearest CSC (Common Service Center). There, you can submit the required documents, such as your Aadhaar card and ration card, to get yourself verified and receive the card if found eligible.
The second method is completely online; you can also check your eligibility yourself through the official Ayushman Bharat website or the ‘Ayushman App’. Through Aadhaar e-KYC, you can download your digital card from the comfort of your home, which can be presented at any hospital.
Why is it essential for every family
The Ayushman Card is not just an identity card, but also a guarantee that protects you from taking out loans in times of illness. Its biggest benefit is that it provides completely cashless treatment. The government covers the cost of hospitalization, discharge, and even some of the medications afterward.
This includes the cost of major surgeries such as cancer, heart disease, kidney, and cataract. Furthermore, you can use this card at any government or registered private hospital in any state. The best part of the scheme is that there is no limit on the number or age of family members, protecting the entire family.
When can government benefits stop
While the card doesn’t need to be renewed frequently, certain circumstances may prevent benefits from being provided. If the beneficiary family no longer falls outside the government-defined eligibility categories, the card may become invalid when government databases are updated.
The government periodically filters the beneficiary list. If your card is lost or damaged, you can download and print it again; no new eligibility check is required. Just make sure your Aadhaar card is correctly linked to your Ayushman account to avoid any interruptions in verification.