Karnataka Government Warns Hospitals Against Overcharging AB ArK Beneficiaries
Health Minister U.T. Khader says strict action will be taken against hospitals and officials who fail to support patients under government health schemes.
Mangaluru: Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Minister U.T. Khader has warned private hospitals not to charge additional fees from patients receiving treatment under the Ayushman Bharat Arogya Karnataka (AB ArK) scheme. He said the government will take firm action against any hospital that violates the rules.
Khader made the remarks after chairing a review meeting of the Health Department in Dakshina Kannada district. The meeting was attended by senior health officials and medical professionals to discuss ways to strengthen healthcare services and improve accountability in both public and private institutions.
Speaking to reporters, the minister stressed that beneficiaries holding BPL cards are entitled to receive treatment under the AB ArK scheme without paying extra charges. He said hospitals must fully comply with the scheme guidelines.
Khader also highlighted the responsibility of Arogya Mitras, who assist patients in accessing healthcare benefits. He warned that legal action would be taken against any Arogya Mitra who neglects their duties or fails to provide proper support to patients.
He further stated that private hospitals refusing to offer treatment under government sponsored healthcare schemes could face cancellation of their licences.
The minister said the government is also reviewing the current cost sharing system for APL cardholders under the scheme. A decision on possible changes will be taken after further examination.
Addressing the shortage of doctors in government hospitals, Khader said the department is working on new measures to attract and retain medical professionals. These include plans to increase salaries for doctors serving in rural and hilly areas.
The government is also considering the regularisation of contractual doctors. Khader noted that a similar system existed in the past, where contractual doctors were made permanent after three years of service. He said discussions are underway to reintroduce the arrangement and a final decision will be announced soon.