Unequal Distribution Of CGHS Wellness Centres

New Delhi: The Rajya Sabha recently discussed the imbalance in the distribution of Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) wellness centres, highlighting that 29% of the 342 centres are in Delhi NCR, while some states have fewer than 10 centres.

Key Concerns Raised

Shri Manoj Kumar Jha questioned why states like Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep have very few centres.
He also inquired whether the government plans to modify the norms for opening new centres in remote regions.

Government’s Response

Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Pratap Rao Jadhav, responded:

Delhi NCR has 99 CGHS centres due to high beneficiary numbers (20 lakh+ out of 47.43 lakh total CGHS beneficiaries).
No changes will be made to the existing eligibility criteria for new CGHS centres, which require at least 2,500 principal CGHS cardholders or 6,000 beneficiaries.
In remote areas, private hospitals are empanelled under CS (MA) Rules, 1944, and Authorised Medical Attendants (AMAs) are appointed to provide healthcare to government employees and their families.

What This Means for Underserved Regions

While new CGHS centres may not be coming soon, the government is relying on private healthcare facilities to fill the gap. However, this raises concerns about accessibility and affordability for government employees in remote areas.

Source: https://www.staffnews.in/2025/03/augmenting-cghs-wellness-centres-across-regions.html