Rajasthan Govt’s Free Treatment Scheme for Out-of-State Patients Faces Hurdles

Jaipur – The Rajasthan government recently announced a free treatment scheme for patients from other states, promising them access to medical care at government hospitals. However, the reality on the ground tells a different story.

Patients Denied Benefits

While the scheme was promoted as a step toward inclusive healthcare, many patients at SMS Hospital and other major government hospitals are reportedly being denied free treatment. The main reason: they do not possess an Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) card.

Patients without the card often face disputes at hospital counters, leaving them with no choice but to pay for costly treatments—undermining the scheme’s very purpose.

Limited Implementation

Currently, the scheme is available at only a handful of hospitals in Jaipur:

SMS Hospital

Kanwatiya Hospital

Super Speciality Block

At MMH Hospital, reports suggest that 50% of patients lack the required card, and no alternative arrangement has been made for them.

Growing Concerns

Healthcare activists argue that while the scheme’s intention is good, its execution remains flawed. Without better clarity and wider implementation, patients—especially those traveling from outside Rajasthan—continue to suffer.