Some good news for retired workers! The Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) has extended medical benefits to those who retired on or after April 1, 2017, with monthly wages up to Rs 30,000. This policy change relaxes earlier restrictions and offers crucial healthcare support to many retirees.
The decision expands coverage to previously excluded individuals who exceeded the wage ceiling during their working years. As long as they were insured for at least 5 years before retirement, they now qualify for ESIC medical benefits. This move benefits those who may have transitioned to lower-paying jobs or faced fluctuations in income throughout their careers.
Furthermore, the ESIC is bolstering its service delivery in North-Eastern states. Relaxed norms for establishing dispensaries, medical infrastructure, and regional offices aim to fulfil the government’s Act East Policy and ensure equitable access to healthcare in these regions.
Beyond medical care, the ESIC adopted a new AYUSH 2023 policy to promote holistic well-being for beneficiaries. This includes establishing Panchkarma and Kshara Sutra units in ESIC hospitals, offering traditional Indian medicine alongside conventional treatments.
Infrastructure development is also a priority. The ESIC approved the acquisition of land for new 100-bed hospitals in Karnataka and Kerala, and a 150-bed hospital in Punjab. This expansion will increase capacity and improve accessibility to quality healthcare for insured individuals.
Further improving accessibility, non-insured persons can avail ESIC healthcare services at ‘nil’ user charges in medical colleges and hospitals at Alwar and Bihta until March 2025.
Union Minister Bhupender Yadav emphasised the overall improvements made in service delivery, including building new facilities, renovating existing infrastructure, and implementing robust policies. He stressed the importance of strengthening social security benefits for vulnerable workers across the country.
This multi-pronged approach by the ESIC demonstrates a commitment to expanding healthcare access and promoting well-being for its beneficiaries, both during their working years and in retirement.
