The Hindu Business Line : AP to launch health insurance on April 1

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Hyderabad Jan. 26 Andhra Pradesh will launch Arogyasri, the health insurance scheme targeting the poor and lower-income groups. The scheme is likely to be launched on April 1. The comprehensive scheme would be piloted in Srikakulam, Mahboobnagar and Anantapur, the three poorest districts in the State.

Announcing this here on Friday after launching the rural initiative of EMRI (Emergency Management and Research Institute), the Chief Minister, Dr Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy, said the scheme is aimed at reducing the huge health costs.

The insurance scheme would offer cover up to Rs 2 lakh at the Government hospitals. All those who are having white ration cards would be made eligible for the scheme.

The scheme, which carries no premium costs, would cover heart, brain and kidney diseases.

BIDS INVITED

According to Mr P.K. Agarwal, Principal Secretary (Health), bids have been invited from all major insurance companies. The last date to submit the bids is January 29.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister launched the rural initiative of EMRI (108 emergency services) aimed at covering 22 districts using 310 ambulances.

Mr Venkat Changavalli, Chief Executive Officer of EMRI, said the State Government sponsors two-thirds cost of the fleet of new ambulances.

The EMRI hopes to operate all the 310 ambulances by May-end.

"We have so far answered 1.37 lakh calls and saved 6,538 lives," he said.

More Stories on : General Insurance | Social Welfare | Andhra Pradesh | Health

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