Ehsaas Program: Health Cards and Benefits (November 2024)

The Ehsaas Program has become a cornerstone of Pakistan’s social welfare framework, addressing the pressing needs of millions of citizens. Among its various initiatives, the Ehsaas Health Card program stands out as a transformative tool in providing access to affordable healthcare. By offering free or subsidized medical services, the program has brought relief to countless families, particularly those living below the poverty line.

As of November 2024, the Ehsaas Health Card program has undergone significant enhancements, expanding its scope and benefits. This article explores the Ehsaas Health Card initiative, its features, recent updates, and its impact on Pakistan’s healthcare landscape.

Overview of the Ehsaas Health Card Program

The Ehsaas Health Card, officially known as the Sehat Sahulat Card, is an insurance-based healthcare initiative aimed at providing free medical services to low-income families. Introduced as part of the broader Ehsaas framework, the program seeks to reduce the financial burden of healthcare expenses and ensure equitable access to quality medical facilities.

Key Features of the Health Card

Comprehensive Coverage
- Covers a wide range of medical services, including outpatient consultations, inpatient treatments, surgeries, maternal and child healthcare, and diagnostic tests.
- Provides access to treatment for chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.
Cashless Healthcare
- Beneficiaries can avail of treatments without making any upfront payments, thanks to the card’s insurance coverage.
Nationwide Accessibility
- Accepted at a network of public and private hospitals across the country, ensuring accessibility even in remote areas.
High Financial Limit
- Each family is entitled to coverage worth up to PKR 1 million annually, which can be extended for specific cases.
Focus on Vulnerable Groups
- Special provisions for widows, orphans, persons with disabilities, and senior citizens.

November 2024 Enhancements

This November, the Ehsaas Health Card program has introduced several updates to broaden its reach and enhance its impact. These improvements reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare access for all citizens.

1. Expanded Coverage

The program now covers 2 million additional families, bringing the total beneficiaries to over 15 million households.
Coverage has been extended to newly merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), remote areas of Balochistan, and underserved regions in Sindh and Punjab.

2. Inclusion of New Treatments

Mental Health Services: Counseling, psychotherapy, and treatment for mental health disorders like depression and anxiety are now included.
Advanced Diagnostics: Access to high-cost diagnostic tests, including MRIs and CT scans, is part of the expanded package.
Rehabilitation Services: Post-surgical rehabilitation and therapy for disabled individuals are now covered.

3. Maternal and Child Health Focus

To combat high maternal and infant mortality rates, the program now offers:

Free prenatal and postnatal care.
Emergency obstetric services.
Vaccination programs for children under five.

4. Enhanced Digital Services

A new Ehsaas Health Card mobile app allows users to locate partner hospitals, track benefits, and access support in real time.
Integration with the Ehsaas 8171 portal ensures that families can verify their eligibility and apply online.

5. Specialized Centers

Dedicated centers for cancer and dialysis treatment have been established in collaboration with private healthcare providers.
Mobile health units in remote areas offer on-the-spot consultations and referrals.

Eligibility and Application Process

The Ehsaas Health Card is designed to serve Pakistan’s most vulnerable populations. Here’s how individuals can check their eligibility and apply:

Eligibility Criteria
- Families with a monthly income below PKR 45,000 are eligible.
- Priority is given to widows, persons with disabilities, and families in underserved regions.
Checking Eligibility
- SMS your CNIC number to 8171 to verify eligibility.
- Alternatively, check your status through the Ehsaas online portal or mobile app.
Application Process
- Eligible families can register at their nearest Ehsaas Center or via the online platform.
- Upon successful registration, the Health Card is issued within a few weeks.
Usage
- Present the card at any partner hospital to receive free treatment.
- The hospital directly claims expenses from the Ehsaas program, ensuring a hassle-free experience for patients.

Impact of the Ehsaas Health Card Program

The Ehsaas Health Card has transformed the lives of millions of families, offering them hope and relief in times of medical emergencies.

1. Financial Relief

The program has saved families from catastrophic healthcare costs, preventing them from falling deeper into poverty.
Over PKR 50 billion has been disbursed to hospitals for treatments, demonstrating the program’s financial scale.

2. Improved Access to Healthcare

The network of over 1,200 partner hospitals ensures that even residents of remote areas can access quality medical care.
Women and children, often underserved in traditional healthcare systems, are now receiving prioritized care.

3. Enhanced Health Outcomes

Early diagnosis and treatment of diseases have reduced morbidity and mortality rates.
Maternal and child health initiatives have contributed to improved birth outcomes and reduced infant mortality.

4. Empowerment of Vulnerable Groups

Persons with disabilities and chronic illnesses now have access to regular medical care, improving their quality of life.

Testimonials from Beneficiaries

The real impact of the Ehsaas Health Card can be seen in the stories of those it has helped:

Sana from Karachi: “My father’s heart surgery was completely covered by the Ehsaas Health Card. Without it, we could never have afforded such an expensive treatment. This program saved his life.”
Ahmed from Swat: “Living in a remote area, we didn’t have access to quality healthcare. With the Health Card, my wife received free maternity care at a private hospital, and our baby was born healthy.”
Farzana from Lahore: “I’ve been battling diabetes for years. With the Health Card, I now get regular checkups and medication without worrying about the costs.”

Challenges and Future Directions

While the Ehsaas Health Card program has achieved remarkable success, certain challenges persist:

Awareness Gaps

Many eligible families remain unaware of the program or how to access it.
Ongoing awareness campaigns are critical to maximizing enrollment.

Infrastructure Limitations

Remote and conflict-affected areas often lack sufficient healthcare facilities, limiting the program’s reach.
Investment in mobile health units and telemedicine can bridge this gap.

Sustainability

Ensuring long-term financial sustainability of the program is crucial, given the rising healthcare demands.
Public-private partnerships and innovative financing models can support the program’s growth.

Conclusion: A Healthier Future for Pakistan

The Ehsaas Health Card program is more than a healthcare initiative—it is a lifeline for millions of Pakistanis struggling with financial and medical challenges. By providing free and accessible healthcare, the program empowers families to prioritize their health and well-being without fear of financial ruin.

With the recent enhancements in November 2024, the Ehsaas Health Card is set to reach new milestones, addressing gaps in Pakistan’s healthcare system and paving the way for a healthier, more equitable society. As the program continues to evolve, its vision of universal healthcare access for all Pakistanis comes closer to reality.