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Universal Coverage for Seniors in India
As of October 2025, India's health insurance coverage for individuals aged seventy and older has remarkably improved from a mere 15 percent in 2017-18 to over 55 percent. This significant increase is largely attributed to the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) and the initiative called Ayushman Vay Vandana (AVV). With the global observance of International Day of Older Persons, India stands at a pivotal moment in recognizing and addressing the healthcare needs of its senior population.
Empowering Seniors with Health Insurance
Launched in 2018, PMJAY has transformed senior healthcare by extending its umbrella to the aged 70 and above with the AVV initiative. This move removed income-related eligibility barriers, enabling seamless access to healthcare services. As of now, PMJAY encompasses 35 out of 36 states, with only West Bengal pending integration, which reflects India’s commitment to seniors’ health rights.
Key Achievements in Senior Healthcare Coverage
This past year has seen remarkable growth in the number of claims processed under AVV, showing not only increasing enrollment but also actual usage of health coverage by seniors. More than 1.06 lakh claims have been settled, signaling a shift from mere enrollment to active healthcare engagement. Additionally, with a robust network of over 33,000 empaneled hospitals, both public and private, elderly citizens can access care with enhanced portability across the country.
Current Trends and Future Opportunities for Senior Care
Despite considerable achievements, gaps remain in coverage. Currently, there are about 6.7 crore individuals above seventy in India, and the expansion efforts have covered about 25 million of them. There’s a pressing need to maintain momentum and continuously educate seniors on how to utilize these health services effectively. Challenges such as awareness, understanding benefits, and avoiding potential pitfalls in health insurance remain critical hurdles to address.
Add Your Voice to the Senior Health Discussion
With so much progress being made, it’s vital for communities to support and promote these insurance schemes and to advocate for continuous improvement in healthcare services for seniors. Whether it's through joining local health initiatives, discussing options with senior care advisors, or exploring plans tailored for seniors 85+, community engagement can make a profound difference.
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