Odisha Orders Ayushman Card to Cover Pre‑Admission Tests

Odisha Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling has announced that pre‑admission medical tests will now be covered under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.

Hospitals across the state must include diagnostic tests conducted up to three days before admission in the Ayushman package.

The directive follows complaints from patients and families that hospitals were excluding these tests, leading to additional financial burdens.

To ensure compliance, a high‑level committee has been formed to inspect hospitals and report irregularities.

Mahaling warned that strict action will be taken against hospitals failing to follow the guidelines.

He emphasised that private hospitals must adhere to the rules without exception, provide quality treatment, and maintain respectful behaviour toward patients and attendants.

This move is expected to strengthen healthcare access and reduce out‑of‑pocket expenses for beneficiaries under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.