Odisha Budget 2024: State Introduces New Health Scheme and Expands Medical Infrastructure

Bhubaneswar: Today Odisha Budget for the financial year 2024-25, Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, who also serves as the Finance Minister, announced several significant changes and new initiatives aimed at improving healthcare in the state. One of the major updates is the introduction of the Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana, which will replace the existing Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana (BSKY). Here is a table: 

The Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana is designed to provide cashless treatment facilities for beneficiaries at both private and government hospitals. This means that people covered under this scheme will not have to pay out-of-pocket expenses for their medical treatments. A substantial amount of Rs 3,056 crore has been allocated in the state budget to support this new health insurance scheme. 

In addition to the new state scheme, the budget also includes an allocation of Rs 500 crore for the implementation of the Centre’s Ayushman Bharat scheme in Odisha. This national health insurance scheme aims to provide financial protection to the poor and vulnerable sections of society, helping them access quality healthcare services without financial strain. 

To further boost the state's healthcare infrastructure, the Odisha government has set aside Rs 2,462 crore in the budget. A notable portion of this fund, Rs 1,000 crore, will be used for the redevelopment of SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. This redevelopment aims to enhance the hospital's facilities and services, ensuring better care for patients. 

Moreover, the government has planned to establish new medical colleges to address the growing demand for medical education and healthcare services. The Jajpur Medical College is expected to commence operations in 2025, while the Phulbani and Talcher medical colleges are scheduled to start in 2026 and 2027, respectively. These new institutions are set to provide advanced medical education and improve healthcare accessibility in their respective regions. 

Additionally, the Odisha government has introduced the Surendra Sai Dibyadrushti Yojana, a new initiative focused on providing free eye treatment. This scheme aims to offer essential eye care services to those in need, ensuring that vision-related issues are addressed promptly and effectively. 

Overall, the Odisha Budget 2024 reflects the state government's commitment to enhancing healthcare services and infrastructure. With these new schemes and allocations, Odisha aims to improve the health and well-being of its residents, making quality medical care more accessible and affordable for everyone. 

FAQs 

1. What is the Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana?

The Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana is a new health insurance scheme introduced by the Odisha government. Under this scheme, people will get cashless treatment at both private and government hospitals. This means that you won't have to pay for your medical treatment out of your own pocket if you're covered by this scheme. 

2. How much money has been allocated for the Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana?

The Odisha government has allocated Rs 3,056 crore for the Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana in the 2024-25 budget. This large amount is intended to ensure that the scheme can provide comprehensive health coverage to those in need. 

3. Will the Ayushman Bharat scheme still be available in Odisha?

Yes, the Ayushman Bharat scheme will still be available in Odisha. The state government has allocated Rs 500 crore in the budget to support the implementation of this central health insurance scheme, which provides financial protection for healthcare costs. 

4. What is the Surendra Sai Dibyadrushti Yojana?

The Surendra Sai Dibyadrushti Yojana is a new initiative that offers free eye treatment to people in Odisha. This scheme aims to help those who need eye care services but cannot afford them. 

5. How is the Odisha government planning to improve its medical infrastructure?

The Odisha government has allocated Rs 2,462 crore to develop and improve healthcare infrastructure across the state. A significant part of this funding, Rs 1,000 crore, will be used to redevelop the SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. This redevelopment will upgrade the hospital's facilities and services. 

6. When will the new medical colleges start operating?

The new medical colleges planned by the Odisha government are scheduled to start at different times: Jajpur Medical College will begin in 2025, while Phulbani and Talcher medical colleges are scheduled to commence in 2026 and 2027, in that order. 

7. How can I benefit from these new health schemes?

To benefit from the Gopabandhu Jan Arogya Yojana or the Ayushman Bharat scheme, you need to be enrolled in the respective scheme. You can check with local government offices or health departments for details on how to apply and become eligible. 

8. Where can I get more information about these schemes?

For more information, you can visit the official website of the Odisha government or contact local health department offices. They can provide you with details on how to enroll, eligibility criteria, and how the schemes work.