Private hospital lobby attempts to destroy Medisep scheme, says Minister KN Balagopal in assembly

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The private hospital lobby is trying to destroy Medisep, the health insurance scheme for govt. employees and pensioners, but the government will try to empanel more hospitals, said Minister K N Balagopal in the assembly.

This scheme is beneficial to about 40 lakh people which includes not only government employees but also employees of universities and local bodies, part-time contingent employees, personal staff members, pensioners, family pensioners and their dependents. 1920 treatments including organ transplants are covered. There are 394 hospitals under the plan. Rs 1,89,56,000 has been given as claim for 902 people within a week of the scheme's launch.

The earlier reimbursement will continue to be provided for OP treatment. Interest free medical advance has also been maintained. Medical advance for pensioners will continue to be provided.

Chennithala alleged that Rs 700 crore reached the hands of insurance companies through the scheme which was implemented in haste without prior preparation.