“Health comes first, as per Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann” – Health Minister
Patiala News (April 12): A two-day camp organized on April 11 and 12 at Rajindra Gymkhana and Mahindra Club, Patiala, for the registration of cards under the Chief Minister Health Scheme witnessed enthusiastic participation from members, their families, and club staff. The Bhagwant Mann-led government is expanding access to healthcare services through the Chief Minister Health Scheme. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that every section of society is safeguarded before any medical emergency, with mandatory possession of the scheme’s health card.
The camp, which commenced at 9:00 AM on both days, saw active and enthusiastic participation from club members. Many appreciated the initiative and showed keen interest in registering for the health cards. Recognizing the importance of convenient and comprehensive health coverage, several members registered along with their families.
Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh, who specially visited the camp organized by PRTC Chairman Advocate Harpal Juneja in collaboration with RGMC members, stated, “Health cards are essential for everyone. As Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann emphasizes, ‘Health comes first,’ because illness does not differentiate between a VIP and a common citizen.”
The Health Minister further stated that the health card under the Chief Minister Health Scheme provides cashless treatment coverage of up to ₹10 lakh per family per year, ensuring financial security during medical emergencies. So far, over 3.5 million health cards have been issued across Punjab, while approximately 50,000 people are registering daily in various districts, reflecting growing trust in the scheme.
He added, “Our aim is to achieve 100% health card coverage for the people of Punjab. Registrations have increased from over 3.4 million to more than 4 million, and we are steadily moving towards reaching every citizen.”
RGMC member and Chairman of Pepsu Road Transport Corporation, Harpal Juneja, said, “It is encouraging to see that influential members of society are part of this club and have come forward to get their cards made at the camp. Members of this elite club include Vice Chancellors, MLAs, IAS officers, renowned doctors, industrialists, and ministers, all of whom appreciated the scheme and got their cards made.”
Club director Rahul Mehta said, “We are very pleased to witness the enthusiasm shown by people. Members, their families, and staff actively participated and got their cards made.” He added that over 400 people participated in the two-day RGMC camp and registered for the health cards.
Dr. Balbir Singh further said, “Treatment is completely cashless. The Bhagwant Mann government has already made advance payments to insurance companies. The registration process is simple, doorstep delivery facilities are available, additional benefits are provided to Ayushman cardholders, and outreach is being ensured across villages, cities, and markets through such camps.”
It is noteworthy that to ensure wider outreach, the Bhagwant Mann government is organizing daily registration camps from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM at easily accessible locations such as gurdwaras, panchayat houses, temples, and community centres.
Earlier this month, a two-day health camp held at PRTC, Patiala successfully registered transport workers under the Chief Minister Health Scheme, thereby extending healthcare access to this underserved section of society.
