The Nagaland Health Protection Society (NHPS) has raised concerns over recent modifications introduced by the National Health Authority (NHA) in hemodialysis packages under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), stating that the changes may pose operational challenges and inconvenience patients in the state.
The revised norms include limiting dialysis cycles to six per pre-authorisation, mandating two bio-authentications (entry and exit) for each cycle, and restricting the duration between entry and exit to a maximum of four hours.
While stating that it supports the objective of enhancing accountability and transparency, the NHPS said the changes could affect the smooth delivery of services. “These measures aim to ensure uniformity and curb misuse, however, there are concerns regarding their practical implementation in the state,” it stated.
The society has submitted a request to the NHA seeking a review of the modifications to ensure a balance between accountability and patient convenience. “System changes must safeguard patient access while maintaining transparency,” it said, adding that a response from the authority is awaited.
The NHPS also clarified that the insurance company involved in the scheme does not have the authority to introduce any systemic or policy-level changes in this regard.