What Is PM RAHAT Scheme? Get Free Medical Treatment Up to Rs 1.5 Lakh

PM RAHAT Scheme: In an effort to save lives during the crucial golden hour, the government has just rolled out the PM Rahat (Road Accident Victim Hospitalization and Assured Treatment) scheme. This initiative ensures that every road accident victim can receive cashless treatment up to Rs 1.5 lakh. Launched last week, the scheme covers treatment for seven days starting from the accident date, aiming to make sure that no victim is turned away from medical care due to financial issues. The Prime Minister gave the green light to this scheme as his first action after moving the Prime Minister’s Office to Seva Tirtha Bhawan. Let’s break down what this scheme entails, who is eligible to apply, and the benefits it provides.

Who can apply under the PM RAHAT Scheme?

This scheme allows all eligible road accident victims to receive treatment without any upfront cash payment. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways points out that road accidents lead to a significant number of fatalities each year in India, and “about 50 percent of road accident deaths could be prevented if victims are taken to the hospital within the first hour.” The integration of the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) with the 112 helpline guarantees access to the nearest designated hospitals.

According to the ministry, road accident victims, good Samaritans (rahveers), or anyone at the accident scene can call 112 to find out about the closest designated hospital and request ambulance services.

What does the Rs 1.5 lakh benefit cover?

– Cashless treatment up to Rs 1.5 lakh per patient

– Coverage for 7 days from the accident date

– Stabilization Treatment

– Up to 24 hours for non-life-threatening conditions

– Up to 48 hours for life-threatening conditions

– Treatment is contingent on police verification through the integrated digital system.

This scheme emphasizes life-saving measures during the golden hour, a critical time when prompt hospitalization can greatly lower the risk of death.

How does the cashless claim process work?

PM Relief is implemented through a tag-based framework, which integrates the following:

Electronic Detailed Accident Report (EDAR) platform of Ministry of Road Transport and Highways

National Health Authority’s Transaction Management System (TMS 2.0)

This integration enables seamless digital connectivity across all processes including accident reporting, hospitalization, police certification, medical management, claim processing and final settlement.

Confirmation by the police is required within the prescribed time limit:

– 24 hours for non-life-threatening cases

– 48 hours for life-threatening cases

– Hospitals will be reimbursed through the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (MVAF).

– In insured cases, payment will be made from the contributions made by general insurance companies.

– In non-insured and hit and run cases, the payment will be made by the Government of India through budget allocation.

The ministry said claims approved by the state health agency will be paid within 10 days, ensuring financial stability and uninterrupted treatment for hospitals