Issuance of Identity/Authorization Cards for CS(MA) Beneficiaries: BPMS writes to DoHFW

Issuance of Identity/Authorization Cards for CS(MA) Beneficiaries: BPMS writes to DoHFW

Bhartiya Pratiraksha Mazdoor Sangh
(AN ALL INDIA FEDERATION OF DEFENCE WORKERS)
(AN INDUSTRIAL UNIT OF B.M.S.)
(RECOGNIZED BY MINISTRY OF DEFNECE, GOVT. OF INDIA)

REF: BPMS/ MoHFW / I Cards / 156 (8/1/L)

Dated: 17.03.2024

To,
The Secretary,
Deptt of Health & Family Welfare,
Min of H &FW, Govt of India,
Nirman Bhawan, New Delhi – 110001
{secyhfw[at]nic.in}

Subject: Issuance of Identity/Authorization Cards for CS(MA) Beneficiaries.

Sir,
I am writing to bring to your attention a crucial matter concerning the lack of Identity/Authorization Cards for employees and their eligible dependents governed by the Central Services (Medical Attendance) Rules, 1944. This issue has been causing significant inconvenience and hardship to CS(MA) beneficiaries, particularly when seeking medical facilities in empaneled private hospitals/healthcare organizations.

Your attention is invited on the emphasizing the applicability of Rule 2(d) of the CS (MA) Rules, 1944, which defines “Government Hospital” to include Military Hospitals, local authority-maintained hospitals, and any other hospital with which arrangements have been made by the Government for the treatment of government servants.

It is pertinent to note that a clarification was issued vide M.H., O.M. F. No. S.14025/7/2000-MS, dated 28.03.2000, stating that Central Government employees and their family members are permitted to avail medical facilities in any Central Government, State Government hospitals, hospitals recognized by the State Government/CGHS Rules/CS (MA) Rules, 1944, and hospitals fully funded by the Central or State Government. The reimbursement is to be made at the rates fixed by the Government under CGHS Rules/CS (MA) Rules, 1944, or the actual expenditure incurred, whichever is less. The private hospitals recognized under CGHS have been explicitly equated with Government hospitals, eliminating any distinction between the Authorized Medical Attendants of private and government hospitals.

We are aware that while beneficiaries under the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) are provided with Identity/Authorization Cards, enabling them to avail medical facilities across India, CS(MA) beneficiaries do not have access to such cards. This disparity places CS(MA) beneficiaries and their family members in a disadvantaged position, especially in situations where prior permission cannot be obtained from their respective controlling authorities.

The absence of Identity/Authorization Cards for CS(MA) beneficiaries leads to difficulties in accessing medical facilities from empaneled private hospitals/healthcare organizations. These institutions often require such cards as proof of authorization before providing medical services, resulting in undue hardship for beneficiaries, particularly during emergencies or when seeking treatment away from their designated areas.

In light of the above, I urge the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare to consider issuing Identity/Authorization Cards to employees and their eligible dependents governed by the CS(MA) Rules. These cards would serve as tangible proof of authorization, similar to those provided to CGHS beneficiaries, thereby enabling CS(MA) beneficiaries to avail medical facilities without unnecessary hindrances.

The issuance of Identity/Authorization Cards for CS(MA) beneficiaries would not only alleviate their difficulties in accessing medical services but also ensure equitable treatment in comparison to CGHS beneficiaries. It would streamline the process and provide much-needed relief to employees and their families, especially during times of medical emergencies.

I trust that the Ministry will give due consideration to this request and take necessary steps to address the issue promptly. Your attention to this matter is highly appreciated, and I look forward to a positive resolution that will benefit CS(MA) beneficiaries across the country.

Thank you for your time and understanding.

Sincerely yours

Sd/-
(MUKESH SINGH)
General Secretary/BPMS &
Member, National Council (JCM)