Photo Courtesy: nenow
Aizawl: The Mizoram Pradesh Congress Committee and the Non-Government Hospital Association of Mizoram are pushing for openness in the state's Universal Health Care Scheme. They want the Zoram People's Movement government to speed up the inclusion of nine remaining private hospitals. MPCC spokesperson Lallianchhunga spoke out on Monday. He criticized the lack of clarity regarding recent rate negotiations with Synod Hospital.
Congress wants lower registration fees for poor families. They argue the program relies on public money. "MUHCS funds do not belong to the Health Minister; they are public funds," Lallianchhunga said during a press conference in Aizawl. He noted that funds come from salary deductions, pensions, and general registration fees. He suspects the state government of making secret deals instead of negotiating through the association to ensure accountability.
The Non-Government Hospital Association of Mizoram maintains that members want to join the scheme if rates match those given to the church-run Synod Hospital. The government recently opened the door for similar hospitals to join at those fixed rates. However, the association warns against fragmented participation. They want to enter as a group to maintain financial viability. They suggested an interim reimbursement system for patients forced to use non-empanelled facilities.
Chief Minister Lalduhoma launched the scheme in March last year. Phase two started this March. The plan covers over 3.2 lakh families. General beneficiaries pay annual fees of Rs 2,500, Rs 5,000, or Rs 10,000 depending on ward choice. Employees pay monthly premiums up to Rs 1,500. Pensioners can get Rs 24 lakh in coverage by surrendering a Rs 1,000 medical allowance. The program offers cashless treatment both inside and outside the state.
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