Healthcare access is a growing concern for senior citizens in India, especially those from low-income backgrounds who struggle to afford quality medical treatment. Recognising this need, the Government of India launched Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) to provide cashless healthcare for economically weaker sections, including elderly individuals.
Through Ayushman Bharat for senior citizens, eligible individuals can avail up to ₹5 lakh per family per year for hospitalisation and medical treatment at empanelled hospitals across India. With over 25,000 hospitals participating in the scheme, senior citizens can access advanced healthcare services without financial burden.
However, for those who do not qualify for Ayushman Bharat, opting for the best family health insurance plans in India or the best health insurance for senior citizens in India can provide comprehensive coverage and access to premium hospitals.
In this blog, we will explore the top hospitals providing Ayushman Bharat benefits for senior citizens, their services, and why having private health insurance alongside Ayushman Bharat can offer better financial protection.
Understanding Ayushman Bharat for Senior Citizens
Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) is India’s largest government-funded health insurance programme, designed to provide financial protection and quality healthcare to underprivileged individuals, including senior citizens. With coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per family per year, the scheme ensures cashless hospitalisation for major medical treatments across a vast network of empanelled hospitals. It includes over 1,500 medical procedures, covering critical illnesses such as cancer, kidney failure, heart disease, and diabetes while also offering coverage for pre-existing conditions from day one.
Unlike private health insurance plans, Ayushman Bharat requires no premium payments, making it an entirely government-funded initiative that provides access to essential medical services. Additionally, its nationwide portability allows beneficiaries to avail of treatment at any empanelled hospital across India, ensuring that elderly individuals, especially those suffering from chronic illnesses, receive timely and affordable healthcare without financial burden.
Top Hospitals Providing Ayushman Bharat Benefits for Senior Citizens
Thousands of public and private hospitals across India have been empanelled under Ayushman Bharat. Below are some of the leading hospitals offering PMJAY benefits to senior citizens.
1. AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences), New Delhi
Location: New Delhi
- One of India’s most reputed hospitals, offering specialised care in cardiology, oncology, and neurology.
- Provides Ayushman Bharat treatments for senior citizens.
- Houses advanced medical equipment and expert doctors for critical conditions.
2. Apollo Hospitals, Chennai (Empanelled Branches Only)
Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
- Specialises in cardiac surgeries, joint replacements, and cancer treatments.
- Empanelled under Ayushman Bharat for select procedures.
- Provides high-quality medical care for senior citizens in Tamil Nadu and nearby states.
3. Fortis Hospital, Mumbai (Empanelled Branches Only)
Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra
- Leading multi-speciality hospital with world-class treatment facilities.
- Provides Ayushman Bharat benefits for critical surgeries and organ transplants.
- Known for advanced cardiac care, cancer treatment, and neurology services.
4. Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi
Location: New Delhi
- One of India’s largest government hospitals, offering senior citizens Ayushman Bharat benefits.
- Specialises in geriatrics, orthopaedics, cardiology, and general medicine.
- Provides affordable and high-quality healthcare for elderly patients.
5. Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore
Location: Vellore, Tamil Nadu
- Recognised for neurosurgery, cancer treatment, and orthopaedic surgeries.
- Empanelled under Ayushman Bharat for senior citizens requiring major medical treatments.
- Offers top-tier medical care with skilled specialists and state-of-the-art technology.
6. PGIMER (Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research), Chandigarh
Location: Chandigarh
- Provides cashless hospitalisation under Ayushman Bharat for senior citizens.
- Renowned for cancer care, heart surgeries, and geriatric care.
- Offers comprehensive medical support at affordable costs.
7. NIMHANS (National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences), Bengaluru
Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka
- Specialises in neurological and psychiatric care.
- Covers mental health treatments under Ayushman Bharat for eligible senior citizens.
- Provides advanced dementia, Parkinson’s, and stroke treatments.
8. Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre, New Delhi
Location: New Delhi
- Specialised in cancer treatment under Ayushman Bharat.
- Offers chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and cancer surgeries for senior citizens.
- Empanelled under PMJAY for cashless cancer treatment.
Ayushman Bharat vs. Private Health Insurance: Which is Better for Senior Citizens?
While Ayushman Bharat provides treatment, it has some limitations. Many senior citizens may require higher coverage, OPD consultations, or access to premium private hospitals. This is where private health insurance comes in.
|
Feature |
Ayushman Bharat (PMJAY) |
Best Health Insurance for Senior Citizens (Private Insurer) |
|
Coverage Amount |
₹5 lakh per family per year |
₹10 lakh – ₹50 lakh (varies by insurer) |
|
Premium Cost |
₹0 (fully government-funded) |
Paid annually (₹10,000 – ₹50,000) |
|
Eligibility |
Low-income families (as per SECC 2011) |
Available for all senior citizens |
|
Hospital Network |
25,000+ empanelled hospitals |
Premium hospitals + private network |
|
OPD & Daycare |
Not covered |
Covered in most plans |
|
Critical Illness Cover |
Limited |
Available as an add-on |
For senior citizens who do not qualify for Ayushman Bharat, choosing a private health insurance policy like Niva Bupa Health Insurance ensures:
- Higher sum insured (₹5 lakh – ₹50 lakh)
- Access to premium hospitals with cashless claims
- OPD, diagnostics, and post-hospitalisation care
- Faster claim settlements and better room choices
Conclusion
For many senior citizens, Ayushman Bharat acts as a lifeline, offering hospitalisation benefits at some of India’s top government and empanelled hospitals. However, this coverage may not be enough for those needing access to premium healthcare facilities, advanced treatments, and specialist care.
Families should explore the best health insurance for senior citizens in India to ensure complete healthcare security. Niva Bupa Health Insurance offers comprehensive senior citizen health plans designed to provide higher coverage limits, ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹50 lakh for medical treatments. These plans also offer cashless treatment at a vast network of private hospitals. They also cover OPD consultations, critical illnesses, diagnostics, post-hospitalisation expenses, and pre-existing disease coverage for long-term protection.
With Niva Bupa Health Insurance, you get more than just a policy—you get peace of mind, financial security, and access to top-tier healthcare for your elderly loved ones. By combining Ayushman Bharat with a private health insurance plan from Niva Bupa, you can ensure that senior citizens receive the best possible medical care without financial burden. Don’t wait for a medical emergency; check your eligibility today and choose the right health insurance plan for lifelong healthcare protection.
