Context:
The Government of India has launched the PM RAHAT (Road Accident Victim Hospitalization and Assured Treatment) Scheme, a key initiative to provide timely and cashless medical treatment to road accident victims nationwide.
About PM RAHAT Scheme:
PM RAHAT is a national cashless emergency treatment programme ensuring victims receive immediate care without financial burden. Eligible patients can avail cashless treatment up to ₹1.5 lakh for seven days from the date of the accident.
Significance of the PM RAHAT Scheme:
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- India experiences a high number of road accidents annually, with many fatalities caused by delayed medical intervention. Studies indicate that nearly 50% of accident deaths could be prevented if care is provided within the first hour, the critical “Golden Hour”. PM RAHAT addresses this gap by enabling rapid emergency response and treatment.
- Saves Lives: Reduces preventable deaths by providing rapid, cashless treatment.
- Strengthens Emergency Healthcare: Improves coordination among responders, police, and hospitals.
- Financial Protection: Shields victims and families from immediate medical expenses.
- Hospital Support: Ensures hospitals can provide uninterrupted care without waiting for payment.
- India experiences a high number of road accidents annually, with many fatalities caused by delayed medical intervention. Studies indicate that nearly 50% of accident deaths could be prevented if care is provided within the first hour, the critical “Golden Hour”. PM RAHAT addresses this gap by enabling rapid emergency response and treatment.
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Key Features of the PM RAHAT Scheme:
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Key Feature |
Description |
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1. Cashless Treatment Guarantee |
Provides cashless treatment up to ₹1.5 lakh per victim for 7 days from the accident. |
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2. Golden Hour Focus |
Integrates with ERSS and 112 helpline for quick coordination among emergency responders, police, and hospitals. |
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3. Stabilisation Care |
Up to 24 hours for non-life-threatening and 48 hours for life-threatening cases to stabilize patients before further treatment. |
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4. Digital Integration & Tracking |
Uses eDAR (MoRTH) and TMS 2.0 (NHA) to link accident reporting, police verification, hospital admission, treatment, claims, and payments. |
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5. Police Authentication |
Police authenticate accident details within 24 hours (non-critical) or 48 hours (critical), ensuring accountability and uninterrupted care. |
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6. Funding & Reimbursement |
Managed via Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (MVAF): insurance covers insured cases; government budget supports uninsured/hit-and-run cases. Claims are settled within 10 days. |
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7. Grievance Redressal |
District Road Safety Committee chaired by the District Collector/DM handles complaints and smooth implementation. |
Conclusion:
The PM RAHAT Scheme is a major step toward integrating technology, emergency services, and healthcare governance. By offering cashless medical care up to ₹1.5 lakh, emphasizing the Golden Hour, and facilitating digital coordination, it aims to save lives and improve outcomes for road accident victims across India.
