Sudhir Singh
Updated on August 31, 2025
You might have skipped going to the hospital because you feared the cost. Maybe you delayed treatment, or someone you know had to borrow money for surgery.
These are daily struggles for many women in India. But there’s a way to get help through the Ayushman Bharat scheme, also known as Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), a key initiative under Modi’s health policies.
The government runs this health insurance scheme called PMJAY, which provides an Ayushman Bharat card or ABHA card (Ayushman Bharat Health Account card).
Ayushman Bharat card gives ₹5 lakh every year for health treatment to families who cannot afford medical care. If you qualify, you can get cashless treatment at both public and private hospitals approved under the scheme, making it a comprehensive Arogya insurance program.
What is Ayushman Bharat Yojana?
Ayushman Bharat Yojana, officially known as Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY), is India’s largest government health insurance scheme.
- It offers Rs. 5 lakh coverage per family per year for medical care.
- It covers hospital stays, surgeries, medicines, and tests.
- You can use it at the impanelled hospitals, including many private ones.
This scheme is not just for men or families with money. It’s for people like you, who need real support to face real health issues, including senior citizens and those from economically weaker sections.
Why is the ABHA card important for women?
Women often face unique health needs – pregnancy, childbirth, cancer, and chronic illnesses. Many times, these needs go unmet because of cost. PMJAY ensures:
- You don’t pay for delivery or C-section.
- You can get cancer treatment, like breast or cervical cancer surgeries.
- You are covered for major surgeries, including heart and kidney issues.
- You get post-hospital care and medicines.
This coverage removes the money barrier and helps women get timely care, reducing out-of-pocket expenditure significantly.
The ABHA card benefits extend to various aspects of women’s health, promoting better health-seeking behaviour.
Do you qualify for the Ayushman card?
Not everyone gets this scheme. But many women do, and they don’t realize it. You might be asking, “Am I eligible for PMJAY?” The Ayushman Bharat card eligibility criteria are as follows:
- Your family is listed in the SECC-2011 data (poor and vulnerable households).
- Your family has no adult male between the ages of 16 and 59.
- You are a widow, single mother, or part of an SC/ST group.
- Your income is low, and you don’t have access to private insurance.
- You belong to rural households or economically weaker sections.
You don’t need to guess. You can check your Ayushman Bharat eligibility online or at your local service centre.
How to check if you are eligible for the ABHA card?
Checking if you qualify for the Ayushman Bharat card takes only a few minutes. Here’s how to perform an Ayushman card check:
- Visit the official website pmjay.gov.in.
- Enter your mobile number and verify with OTP.
- Search for your name in the PM-JAY list.
If your name appears, you are eligible. If not, go to your Common Service Centre (CSC) or talk to your local Panchayat office. They can check the list for you or help with any corrections.
How to get your Ayushman card for Women
Once you confirm that you meet the ABHA card eligibility criteria, getting your card is simple.
- Visit your nearest CSC or a hospital that is part of the scheme for PMJAY registration.
- Bring these documents: Aadhaar card, Ration card, or any proof of family income.
- A mobile number linked to Aadhaar for verification.
- Your name will be checked on the list again.
- If confirmed, your ABHA card will be printed and given to you.
This Ayushman Bharat card allows you to get free treatment at any approved hospital.
Where can you use your ABHA card?
Not every hospital accepts PMJAY. Only government hospitals and some approved private hospitals are part of the hospital empanelment process. To find out where you can use your Ayushman Bharat card:
- Go to https://hospitals.pmjay.gov.in.
- Select your state and district.
- A list of impanelled hospitals will appear.
Take your Ayushman Bharat card to any of these public and private hospitals, and you can get treated without paying.
Documents You Will Need
To get started, make sure you have:
- Aadhaar card, Ration card, or any income proof.
- Mobile number linked to Aadhaar.
Important: Use Your Rights
This is not a favour. The ABHA card is your right if you qualify. Many women lose out because they wait or don’t ask. Take action. Check, apply, and use it to access the Ayushman Bharat health account benefits.
Example: How this worked for Sangeeta
Sangeeta, a 36-year-old woman from Madhya Pradesh, was told she needed surgery for a tumour. She didn’t have the ₹60,000 needed. Her neighbour told her about the Ayushman Bharat Yojana. She checked her name at the CSC, got her Ayushman Bharat card, and went to a private hospital in her district. She had the surgery done, and she didn’t pay anything, thanks to the cashless treatment provided by PMJAY.
FAQS About ABHA Card for Women
1. Is Ayushman Bharat free for women?
Yes, PMJAY is completely free for eligible women. You do not have to pay for the ABHA card or any treatment covered under this scheme. The hospital, medicines, tests, and surgeries are paid by the government up to ₹5 lakh every year for your family.
2. How do I know if I am eligible?
You can check online at pmjay.gov.in. Enter your mobile number, verify with OTP, and search your name. If your name is listed, you are eligible. If you need help, visit your local Common Service Centre (CSC).
3. What if my name is not on the list but I need help?
Go to your CSC or Panchayat office. They can help check your details or tell you if any correction is needed. If you are eligible but missing from the list, they will guide you on what to do next.
4. Does PMJAY cover childbirth?
Yes, the scheme covers both normal delivery and C-section. It includes hospital stay, medicines, and care during and after childbirth.
5. Can I get treatment for cancer under this scheme?
Yes. Ayushman Bharat Yojana covers treatment for breast cancer, cervical cancer, and other serious conditions. It includes surgeries, chemotherapy, and hospital expenses.
6. What documents do I need to get my ABHA card?
You need:
- Aadhaar card, Ration card, or proof of income.
- A mobile number linked to Aadhaar for verification.
These are used to confirm your eligibility and print your Ayushman card.
7. Where can I use my ABHA card?
You can use it at:
- Government hospitals.
- Private hospitals approved under PMJAY.
To find approved hospitals, visit https://hospitals.pmjay.gov.in.
8. Is there an age limit to use the Ayushman Bharat Card?
No, there is no age limit. Women of all ages, including senior citizens, can use this scheme if their family is eligible.
9. How long does it take to get the card after applying?
Usually, you can get your ABHA card within 1 to 2 days after your documents are verified. It depends on the CSC or hospital where you apply.
10. What if I lose my Ayushman Bharat card?
Go back to the CSC or the place where you got the card. They will verify your details and give you a new Ayushman card.
11. How many times can I use the scheme in a year?
You can use it as many times as needed until your family’s total medical expenses reach ₹5 lakh in a single year.
12. Are medicines free under PMJAY?
Yes, all medicines given during your treatment in the hospital are free under this scheme. You don’t pay separately.
13. Do I need to pay any fees at any step?
No, there are no fees to apply, get the ABHA card, or use the scheme. Everything from the card to treatment is free for eligible families.
14. Does the scheme cover my family too, or just me?
The scheme covers your entire family if they are listed under the SECC-2011 data. The ₹5 lakh coverage is for the whole family together.
15. Can I use the scheme in any hospital?
No, you can only use it in hospitals that are listed under PMJAY. Always check the official hospital list online before going for treatment.
16. What is ABHA?
ABHA stands for Ayushman Bharat Health Account. It’s a unique health ID that allows you to access your digital health records and use the benefits of the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
17. How is ABHA insurance different from other health insurance?
ABHA insurance, or PMJAY, is a government-sponsored scheme that provides coverage for secondary and tertiary healthcare. Unlike private insurance, it’s free for eligible families and has no premium or co-payment.
18. Is there a grievance redressal system for PMJAY?
Yes, PMJAY has a robust grievance redressal mechanism. You can contact the National Call Centre or use the online portal to register any complaints or issues you face while using the scheme.
Remember, the Ayushman Bharat Yojana is designed to help you and your family access quality healthcare without financial stress. If you’re eligible, don’t hesitate to get your ABHA card and use its benefits when needed.
The scheme’s portability feature allows you to use your Ayushman Bharat card across India, ensuring continuous coverage. The pre-authorization process is streamlined to provide quick approval for treatments, and the anti-fraud mechanism, including the National Anti-Fraud Unit (NAFU), ensures the integrity of the program.
📩 If you notice any incorrect data in this guide or wish to share additional information, please write to us at info@indiansouls.in.
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