Question : SMS FACILITIES FOR INDENTED MEDICINES

(a) whether the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) has started the practice of sending SMS to the CGHS beneficiaries regarding the indented medicines;

(b) if so, since when and the expenditure being incurred thereon;

(c) whether the Government is aware that the CGHS beneficiaries are given the slip showing the medicines indented and available while the SMS mention the same medicine indented; and

(d) if so, the reasons for spending on sending SMS along with the name of the telecom provider who is likely to be benefited thereform?

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE (SHRI GHULAM NABI AZAD)

(a): Yes.

(b): SMS facility has been started since 6th July 2012. Currently the service is provided by NIC, free to CGHS.

(c) & (d): The beneficiaries are given the printout of prescription by doctors, which carries the details whether the medicine is available in the Wellness Centre or is indented.

SMS facility has been started

(i) As a deterrent against misuse of CGHS card by unauthorized persons.

(ii) As a good will gesture that CGHS takes care of the beneficiaries.

Currently the service is provided by NIC, free to CGHS.