Universal Health Coverage for Elderly: How the Ayushman Vaya Card Works

India's health spending is surging at roughly 15% annually, creating affordability challenges for many, especially those over 70 who often lack a regular income. To address this, the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana has been expanded through the Ayushman Vaya Vandana Card, offering universal cashless hospital care to senior citizens.

Eligibility is now purely age‑based. Any Indian who has turned 70 can apply, irrespective of financial status. The registration can be completed via the Ayushman Bharat app, a Common Service Centre, or an authorised enrolment centre, with Aadhaar verification and proof of age as the only required documents.

The card delivers up to Rs 5 lakh per annum for hospitalisation, covering a wide range of treatments at both public and private empanelled hospitals. Beneficiaries can access cashless services, thereby avoiding out‑of‑pocket expenses for eligible procedures.

Once the applicant's details are verified, the card is generated and made active, allowing immediate use at any participating hospital. By removing income barriers, the scheme aims to improve health outcomes for the elderly and provide financial relief to their families.