Chandigarh: The strike by private hospitals in Haryana entered its second day on Friday as healthcare providers protested against the delay in payments for treatment offered to Ayushman Bharat card holders.
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) had issued a letter on July 28, warning of a suspension of services under the Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) from August 7 due to pending dues.
In response, the Haryana government released ₹245 crore on August 4 and introduced a first-come, first-served system for disbursing payments to empanelled hospitals.
Chief Minister Nayab Saini has taken cognizance of the strike and directed officials to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services. Following his instructions, the Health Department has mobilised civil hospitals across districts to provide timely treatment to patients.
A spokesperson for the Haryana State Health Agency (SHA) said that payments are now being processed to channelised hospitals. The government is also making alternative arrangements to minimise the impact on patients affected by the ongoing strike.
