Altered Guidelines in CGHS: Alleviation of these specific regulations for central government employees and pensioners
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has recently updated guidelines for the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS), emphasizing expanded access and convenience for senior citizens and critically ill patients.
Under the new rules, physiotherapy services can now be availed from any government hospital or private hospital included in the CGHS panel. Additionally, home-based physiotherapy (domiciliary physiotherapy) remains available for needy beneficiaries, as per guidelines issued since June 1, 2011.
To ensure no interruption in physiotherapy treatment, the government has expedited the recruitment process of physiotherapists in CGHS Wellness Centers. Currently, only one post is vacant while five physiotherapists serve at the Parliament House Complex Medical Center, deputed from major hospitals.
In IPD referral cases under CGHS, no geo-tagged photos are required. However, a valid referral should be uploaded on the NHA portal. For IPD non-referral cases, two geo-tagged photos are required at the time of admission and discharge, with an additional photo every 7 days if hospitalization exceeds 7 days.
In OPD cases under CGHS, a photo is mandatory if the patient is above 70 years of age, bedridden, or in follow-up. However, for services with a referral, a photo is not required.
The new rules for physiotherapist recruitment were notified on 24 June 2024. Beneficiaries are encouraged to stay informed about these changes to utilize services without disruption.
These recent changes aim to make the CGHS system more effective, transparent, and patient-friendly, particularly for the elderly and critically ill. The facility of home-based physiotherapy (domiciliary physiotherapy) continues to be available for needy beneficiaries.
[1] Central Government Health Scheme: Updated Guidelines for Physiotherapy Services [3] Central Government Health Scheme: Expediting Recruitment of Physiotherapists in CGHS Wellness Centers
- The recent updates in Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) guidelines have expanded the market for domiciliary physiotherapy services, making health-and-wellness more accessible for senior citizens and those with medical-conditions.
- As part of the science of medical treatment, physiotherapy can now be availed from any government or private hospital included in the CGHS panel, ensuring smooth continuity of care for beneficiaries.
- In the interest of overall health-and-wellness, particularly for aging populations, the Central Government Health Scheme has streamlined the hiring process for physiotherapists in CGHS Wellness Centers, ensuring a stronger force of care providers.
