Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:
(a) the reasons for introduction of endorsement system for diagnostic test advised by doctor of CGHS listed private hospital;
(b) benefits likely to be accrued to the Government;
(c) whether the Government has received representation against the provision, if so, the details thereof; and
(d) whether the Government proposes/considering to remove the provision of endorsement, if so, the details thereof?
ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND
FAMILY WELFARE
(SHRI ASHWINI KUMAR CHOUBEY)
(a) & (b): Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) beneficiaries are referred by Medical Officer of CGHS Wellness Centre to private hospitals empanelled under CGHS for the purpose of consultations only. Hence, if a doctor of CGHS empanelled private hospital advises any Diagnostic Test, the same is required to be endorsed by the Medical Officer of CGHS Wellness Centre so as to ensure that the test is listed under CGHS, failing which approval of competent authority would be required. It is also a part of checks and balances in the referral system under CGHS. In emergency conditions, no endorsement for any treatment/ investigation is required from CGHS Wellness Centre.
(c): Several representations for removing the requirement of endorsement for investigations advised by Specialist of CGHS empanelled hospitals have been received from various quarters that includes pensioners, Pensioners’ Association and individuals.
(d): No.