What is the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS)?
The Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) is a flagship healthcare program launched by the Government of India to provide comprehensive medical care to veterans of the Indian Armed Forces and their dependents. It is a token of gratitude from the nation for their service. The scheme aims to deliver quality healthcare through a network of ECHS Polyclinics, Service Hospitals, and private empanelled hospitals across the country.
Unlike schemes like Ayushman Bharat which are for economically weaker sections, ECHS is specifically for ex-servicemen. It is a contributory scheme where a one-time contribution is made at the time of retirement. This guide provides a detailed look into the ECHS, its eligibility criteria, benefits, and how you can apply for the all-important ECHS smart card.
Who is Eligible for an ECHS Card?
Eligibility for the ECHS is clearly defined and covers veterans and their dependents. The primary categories are:
- Ex-Servicemen: All Armed Forces veterans (Army, Navy, Air Force) who are in receipt of a pension or disability pension.
- Spouse: The legally wedded spouse of the ex-serviceman.
- Dependent Children:
- Sons are eligible until they start earning or attain the age of 25, whichever is earlier.
- Unmarried and unemployed daughters are eligible for life.
- Children suffering from a permanent disability are eligible for life.
- Dependent Parents: Parents whose total income from all sources does not exceed the prescribed limit (currently ₹9,000 + Dearness Relief per month) and who normally reside with the veteran.
Key Benefits of the ECHS Scheme
ECHS provides comprehensive medical coverage, which is often more extensive than other public schemes.
- Cashless Treatment: All treatments at ECHS Polyclinics and empanelled hospitals are completely cashless.
- OPD Treatment: It covers Out-Patient Department (OPD) consultations, which is a major benefit not available in many other insurance schemes.
- Medicines: All prescribed medicines are provided free of cost through the Polyclinics.
- Hospitalization: Covers all expenses related to hospitalization, including room rent, nursing care, surgeries, ICU charges, and diagnostics.
- Nationwide Network: The scheme has a vast network of over 300 Polyclinics and more than 2,500 empanelled private hospitals across India.
How the ECHS System Works: Polyclinics and Referrals
The ECHS operates on a referral-based system, which is important to understand.
- Step 1: Visit Your Parent Polyclinic
For any health issue, your first point of contact is your registered ECHS Polyclinic. You can consult with the Medical Officer there and get medicines for common ailments.
- Step 2: Referral for Specialist Consultation
If you need to see a specialist (e.g., a cardiologist or an orthopaedic surgeon), the Medical Officer at the Polyclinic will provide you with a referral to a nearby empanelled hospital.
- Step 3: Referral for Hospitalization
Similarly, if hospitalization or a surgical procedure is required, you will be referred from your Polyclinic to a Service Hospital or an empanelled private hospital. This referral is mandatory for planned treatments to be cashless. In case of an emergency, you can go to the nearest empanelled hospital directly.
How to Apply for a New 64kb ECHS Smart Card
The application process for the new ECHS smart card is now online.
- Step 1: Visit the Official ECHS Portal
Go to the official website for ECHS card applications: echs.sourceinfosys.com.
- Step 2: Register and Fill the Application Form
Register yourself with your mobile number and create a password. Then, carefully fill out the online application form with all your personal details, service details, and dependent information.
- Step 3: Upload Documents
You will need to upload scanned copies of your photograph, signature, PPO (Pension Payment Order), Aadhaar card, and other required documents.
- Step 4: Make the One-Time Contribution
Pay the one-time, non-refundable contribution online. The amount varies based on your pay grade at retirement.
- Step 5: Verification and Card Collection
Your application will be verified at various stages. Once approved, you will be notified, and you can collect your new ECHS smart card from your parent Polyclinic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. I lost my ECHS card. How do I get a new one?
If you lose your card, you need to file an FIR with the police. Then, you can apply for a new card through the official ECHS portal by uploading a copy of the FIR and paying the prescribed fee for a duplicate card.
Q. Can I get treatment in a non-empanelled hospital during an emergency?
Yes, in a life-threatening emergency, you can get treatment at a non-empanelled hospital. However, the treatment will not be cashless. You will have to pay the bills first and then claim reimbursement from ECHS as per the approved government rates.