Access to timely medical treatment remains a challenge for many low-income families in Bengaluru, especially when government hospitals are overcrowded and waiting periods stretch for weeks. In an effort to ease this burden, the Karnataka Cabinet has approved a pilot initiative allowing poor patients to receive free treatment at four major private medical college hospitals in the city.
The decision applies to beneficiaries under the Ayushman Bharat–Arogya Karnataka (AB-ArK) scheme and removes a key barrier that previously delayed care.
Direct Access Without Referral
Until now, patients typically needed a referral letter from a government hospital before seeking treatment at a private facility under the scheme. Under the new decision, Below Poverty
Line cardholders can go directly to four designated hospitals without first visiting a government hospital.
The selected institutions are St. John’s Medical College Hospital, M.S. Ramaiah Medical College Hospital, Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences Hospital, and Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Medical College Hospital.
The government will reimburse these hospitals at fixed package rates, ensuring eligible patients are not charged for covered treatments.
Why the Change Was Introduced
Officials say the move aims to reduce pressure on major government hospitals such as Victoria, Bowring and KC General, which are currently handling overwhelming patient loads.
Long queues for surgeries and specialist care often force patients to wait for extended periods. Allowing direct entry into reputed private teaching hospitals is expected to improve access to timely, quality treatment.
Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil said the step is intended to remove bureaucratic hurdles and ensure that healthcare reaches those who need it most.
The initiative will be implemented on a pilot basis within the Greater Bengaluru Authority limits. The government will monitor patient access, costs and hospital compliance before deciding whether to expand the model to other hospitals or regions.
What This Means for Patients
Under the existing AB-ArK system, private hospital treatment was usually permitted only if a required procedure was unavailable in government facilities. This decision marks a significant shift by allowing eligible patients to directly approach select private hospitals.
For many families, the change could mean faster treatment, fewer hospital visits and reduced financial stress during medical emergencies.
/images/ppid_59c68470-image-177097504074518728.webp)
