Most Ayushman Bharat grievances were about hospitals demanding money despite cashless care, while Assam led in complaints about registration delays due to human resources shortages.

An analysis of 1.1 lakh grievances filed by Ayushman Bharat beneficiaries between October 2018 and March 2022 revealed that most complaints were about hospitals demanding money for treatment despite the schemes promise of cashless care. A 2023 CAG report also found that 75 out of 121 healthcare providers de-empanelled between 2018 and 2021 were involved in illegal money collection. 

The study, published by the Centre for Health Equity, Law and Policy, highlighted that Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Uttarakhand had the most grievances about hospital services. At the same time, Maharashtra, Assam, and Bihar reported issues related to eligibility and registration. Assam had the highest grievance rate, with 52% linked to registration delays, possibly due to a 70% manpower shortage.

(Source:https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/hospitals-asking-for-money-biggest-chunk-of-ayushman-bharat-grievances/articleshowprint/119393977.cms )