PM-RAHAT Scheme Launched: Rs 1.5 Lakh Cashless Road Accident Care

New PM-RAHAT scheme covers Rs 1.5 lakh for road accident victims across India. Learn how it works and who pays.

The Indian government has launched a new initiative called PM-RAHAT. The name stands for Road Accident Victim Hospitalisation and Assured Treatment. This nationwide scheme provides cashless medical care to people injured in road accidents. The goal is to ensure that victims receive immediate treatment without worrying about upfront costs.

Under this scheme, victims can receive up to Rs 1.5 lakh for their medical treatment. This coverage lasts for seven days from the date of the accident. The scheme applies to accidents on all types of roads, including national highways, state roads, and city streets.

Focus on the Golden Hour

The PM-RAHAT scheme focuses on the "Golden Hour." This is the first hour after an accident occurs. Doctors believe that getting medical help during this time significantly increases the chances of survival. By removing financial barriers, the government hopes to speed up the treatment process for everyone.

For cases that are not life-threatening, the scheme covers stabilization treatment for up to 24 hours. In life-threatening situations, the coverage can extend to 48 hours. A digital system verifies each case to ensure the benefits reach the right people.

How to Access Help

The scheme connects directly with the Emergency Response Support System (ERSS). People can dial 112 to get help. This service helps victims, bystanders, or "Good Samaritans" locate the nearest hospital. It also helps them request an ambulance quickly. This integration improves coordination between police, hospitals, and emergency responders.

Payment and Hospital Reimbursement

Hospitals do not have to wait long for their payments. The Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (MVAF) reimburses the hospitals for the treatment they provide. If the vehicle involved in the accident has insurance, the insurance company covers the cost. In cases of hit-and-run or uninsured vehicles, the government pays the bill through its budget.

State Health Agencies settle these claims within 10 days. This quick payment system encourages hospitals to start treatment immediately without asking for money from the victim or their family.

Expert Analysis 

The PM-RAHAT scheme is a vital step toward improving road safety and healthcare in India. Every year, thousands of people lose their lives because they do not receive timely medical care after an accident. Often, hospitals or bystanders hesitate to act due to the fear of legal issues or medical costs. This scheme addresses both problems.

By providing up to Rs 1.5 lakh in cashless treatment, the government is making life-saving care accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial status. The focus on the Golden Hour is scientifically sound and will likely save many lives. The integration with the 112 emergency number also makes the system easy to use for the general public.

However, the success of PM-RAHAT depends on how well hospitals across the country implement it. Small private hospitals must be aware of the reimbursement process to avoid turning away victims. The 10-day payment guarantee is a strong incentive, but the government must ensure the digital verification system works without glitches. For the common citizen, this scheme provides a safety net that was missing for a long time. It turns every bystander into a potential lifesaver by removing the burden of medical expenses.

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