West Bengal MMSBY scheme: Know eligibility, diseases covered and how to apply

The West Bengal Government introduced the Mukhyamantri Swasthya Bima Yojana (MMSBY) to provide affordable health insurance coverage for low-income families. Simultaneously, the health department issued a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to assist hospitals in enrolling patients and transitioning them from the existing Swasthya Sathi (SS) scheme to MMSBY or the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (WB PM-JAY).

The scheme is partnered with over 2,500 hospitals in West Bengal, including 1,240 private and 627 government facilities.

Eligibility for MMSBY is determined by an annual income threshold of Rs 8 lakh. Families not covered by other government healthcare schemes like CGHS or WBHS are also eligible. To apply for MMSBY, families must undergo a mandatory verification process at designated camps, official websites, or hospital helplines. Once verified, each family member will receive a unique digital card.

MMSBY covers a broad range of diseases, including mental ailments, and provides coverage for specialized surgeries like knee replacements. The scheme also includes coverage for critical procedures across various medical departments, such as orthopedics, cardiology, vascular and neurological care, and emergency interventions. Furthermore, mental health care is fully integrated into the package, addressing conditions like mental disabilities, schizophrenia, mood disorders, and substance abuse.

To apply for the scheme, individuals can fill out Form B, available at the Swasthya Sathi website or local Block Development Offices. Required documents include Aadhaar and ration card numbers for all family members. Upon verification, a Unique Registration Number (URN) is issued, and patients receive their Swasthya Sathi Smart Card at a designated camp.