Special Correspondent
Mumbai:
Following a shocking incident where Pune’s Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital allegedly denied treatment to a pregnant woman due to lack of money—leading to her death—the Fadnavis-led Maharashtra government has initiated strong corrective steps. In a landmark decision, the state has directed hospitals to provide cashless treatment up to Rs 1 lakh for accident victims to ensure timely medical assistance.
The decision was announced during a review meeting held at the Worli headquarters of the State Health Assurance Society, chaired by Health Minister Prakash Abitkar. The meeting focused on the implementation of the Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) and the Mahatma Jyotirao Phule Jan Arogya Yojana (MJPJAY).
Minister Abitkar stressed that no patient should lose their life due to denial of emergency treatment, especially in accident cases. He directed all empaneled hospitals under these schemes to immediately offer cashless treatment up to Rs 1 lakh to accident victims. He also instructed hospitals to conduct monthly health camps and provide cashless treatment to at least five patients per camp, ensuring the benefits of public health schemes reach more people.
In addition, the government has formed a special committee to recommend reforms in state-run health schemes. This committee is expected to submit its report within a month.
The tragic incident in Pune had sparked widespread outrage and raised serious concerns about the healthcare system. Against this backdrop, the review meeting led by Minister Abitkar aimed to enforce stricter accountability among hospitals and ensure timely, affordable, and accessible treatment to the citizens of Maharashtra.
The government’s initiative is being seen as a much-needed “healthcare shield” for the common man, curbing arbitrary denial of treatment and reinforcing the right to emergency care.
