PHANA Punjab announces suspension of all cashless services under Ayushman Bharat Scheme

LUDHIANA: The Private Hospital and Nursing Home Association (PHANA) Punjab announced on Wednesday the suspension of all cashless services under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme across the state. Claiming to represent private hospitals and nursing homes statewide, PHANA cited months of unresolved payment issues, with approximately Rs 600 crore in payments "pending" for the last six months.

Addressing media persons on Wednesday, PHANA President Dr Vikas Chabbra stated that PHANA Punjab had previously engaged with the CEO of the State Health Agency (SHA) Punjab and the health minister to resolve these payment issues. However, despite repeated assurances of payment clearance within 15 days, no action has been taken to address the crisis. He added that with no resolution in sight and hospitals facing punitive actions for refusing treatment, PHANA Punjab has officially halted these services under the Ayushman Bharat Scheme.

Meanwhile, the CEO of SHA Punjab, Babita Kler, said there had been a software issue earlier when the National Health Authority (NHA) changed the portal, causing delays. She added that in the last six months, Rs. 250 crore had been paid, and the remaining payments are under process, with daily payment processing continuing.