Srinagar, June 29: A proposed suspension of services under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY)/SEHAT Scheme by private hospitals in Jammu and Kashmir has been deferred for two weeks after the government assured that pending payments to empanelled hospitals would begin to be released from Tuesday.
The decision followed a meeting between officials of the State Health Agency and representatives of the Jammu and Kashmir Private Hospitals and Dialysis Centres Association (JKPHDA), where the issue of delayed reimbursements was discussed.
Following the meeting, the association announced that dialysis, chemotherapy, surgeries and other treatments under the SEHAT Scheme would continue without interruption, bringing relief to thousands of beneficiaries across the Union Territory.
“We are not here to fight. We are here to treat,” said Dr. Masood-ul-Hassan, General Secretary of JKPHDA. “Our hospitals have been under immense financial stress due to pending payments. We have decided to defer the strike for two weeks after receiving an assurance that the disbursement process will begin from Tuesday.”
He said the association would review the government’s response over the next 14 days.
“If the promised payments are released on time, services will continue as usual. Our priority is that poor patients should not suffer. However, if the assurances are not fulfilled, we will be compelled to review our decision,” he added.
The association had earlier announced that it would suspend services under the scheme from July 1, alleging that delayed reimbursements had placed severe financial pressure on private hospitals and dialysis centres.
The proposed strike had triggered anxiety among patients dependent on regular treatment, particularly those undergoing dialysis and chemotherapy, whose treatment schedules cannot be delayed.
“When I heard about the possible suspension, I couldn’t sleep,” said Rafiq Ahmad, a dialysis patient from Anantnag. “Dialysis is not something that can be postponed. Missing even one session can put my life at risk.”
Another attendant of a patient, Shabnam Begum, who is undergoing chemotherapy under the SEHAT Scheme, said, “Cancer treatment follows a strict schedule. Any interruption creates fear and uncertainty for patients and their families. We hope both the government and hospitals find a permanent solution.”
Hospital representatives said uninterrupted funding is essential to ensure that quality healthcare continues under the flagship insurance scheme.
The association also expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister, Health Minister, Lieutenant Governor and senior officials of the Health Department for facilitating discussions that led to the temporary resolution. With the government expected to begin releasing pending dues from Tuesday, both hospitals and patients will now closely watch whether the assurances translate into timely payments and long-term stability for healthcare services under the SEHAT Scheme.
