Initiatives by the government to improve access, availability, and quality of healthcare services

The Government of India is continually enhancing the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) by consistently revising its health benefit packages to incorporate clinical progress, feedback from stakeholders, and changing public health requirements. The newest update of the Health Package Master now includes 1,961 procedures from 27 medical specialties, guaranteeing thorough care choices for beneficiaries. To maintain quality standards, selected private hospitals are chosen through rigorous criteria related to infrastructure and staffing and are rewarded for obtaining certifications like National Accreditation Board for Hospitals (NABH) and National Quality Assurance Standards (NQAS). All medical facilities are required to adhere to Standard Treatment Guidelines (STGs), guaranteeing uniform, high-quality healthcare nationwide under AB PM-JAY. A notable achievement is the creation of 1,77,906 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs) by June 30, 2025, surpassing the original goal of 1,50,000 centres. These centres, evolved from sub-health and primary health centres, offer a broad range of preventive, promotive, rehabilitative, and curative services, encompassing reproductive health and disease management. The Government additionally backs vital medications and diagnostic services at the Sub-Health Centres - Ayushman Arogya Mandir (SHC-AAM) and Primary Health Centre - Ayushman Arogya Mandir (PHC-AAM) levels. To tackle healthcare workforce issues, the National Health Mission provides appealing incentives for physicians working in rural and isolated regions, encompassing hard area allowances, adaptable salary structures, and non-financial perks like preferential entry to postgraduate programs. These initiatives together strengthen the Government’s dedication to accessible, affordable, and high-quality primary healthcare, particularly in neglected areas.